Leukemia Isn’t the End — It’s Just the Beginning : A diagnosis in Adulthood

by The Natalie Strong Foundation

Leukemia Isn’t the End — It’s Just the Beginning.

A diagnosis of leukemia in adulthood is not just unexpected—it’s a gut punch. It arrives like a storm with no warning, leaving you soaked in fear, confusion, and questions. Right now, your mind may be racing: What’s going to happen to me? How long will this take? Will I survive this?

Take a deep breath. You will be ok.

The road ahead may be challenging, but it’s far from hopeless. Leukemia isn’t the end. It’s just the beginning of a new chapter—one you will get through, and come out stronger for. This is not just theory. It’s real life. My friend Eric was diagnosed with leukemia in his 40s. The news shook him and everyone around him. Today? He’s living fully, thriving in Scottsdale, Arizona—healthy, happy, and playing golf every day. He is the living proof that leukemia is not the end of a vibrant life. It’s a detour, not a dead end.

What You’re Facing: Understanding Adult Leukemia

There are multiple types of adult leukemia, but the most common are Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), and Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML). The word acute means fast-moving—treatment often begins within days of diagnosis. Chronic leukemias move more slowly and may not need immediate treatment. Each one has a different treatment plan, as my dad always said, just follow the plan. No matter your type, one truth remains: this is treatable. And survival rates continue to climb, especially with early intervention, modern therapies, and personalized treatment plans.

A Realistic, Compassionate Look at the Process

This next part is meant to give you clarity. Not to scare you—but to prepare you. Because when you understand what’s ahead, you regain control.

Step 1: Diagnosis and Staging

Your medical team will run blood tests to measure white cell counts, red cell levels, and platelets; a bone marrow biopsy to confirm the type of leukemia and how advanced it is; genetic testing to detect specific mutations that can influence your treatment plan; and imaging (CT scans, etc.) to see if organs like your spleen or liver are affected.

Step 2: Starting Treatment – The Phases of Acute Leukemia (ALL or AML)

Treatment for acute leukemia typically includes 3 main phases. It can take 6 months to over 2 years, depending on how your body responds. This is key, if you are in good shape or exercise during treatment sources suggest your body responds better.

Phase 1: Induction Therapy

Goal: Wipe out leukemia cells and achieve remission.

Expect intensive chemotherapy, usually inpatient for several weeks. Your immune system will be severely weakened. Common side effects include fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and mouth sores. You’ll likely need transfusions of blood or platelets, and you may be given antibiotics or antivirals to prevent infections. Tip: Bring things that comfort you to the hospital—blankets, photos, music. These small pieces of home make a big difference.

Phase 2: Consolidation Therapy

Goal: Kill any remaining leukemia cells and prevent relapse.

This phase is usually outpatient, but involves multiple cycles of chemo. It may include targeted therapy or stem cell transplant depending on genetic factors and can take several months. You’ll feel stronger than in induction, but still need to rest often. This is when you may start to feel frustrated—ready to “feel normal” again. That’s okay. Be patient with yourself!

Phase 3: Maintenance Therapy (Primarily for ALL)

Goal: Keep leukemia in remission.

This involves lighter chemo over a longer period—up to 2 years, usually oral medication with occasional clinic visits. Most people can start returning to work, social activities, and a more normal life during this phase.

If You Have Chronic Leukemia (CLL or CML)

Treatment may not start immediately. Your doctor may monitor your blood counts (“watchful waiting”). When treatment begins, it usually involves oral medications or targeted therapies that are less aggressive than chemotherapy.

Physical and Emotional Side Effects You Might Encounter

You may experience exhaustion that rest doesn’t always fix, hair loss (especially during induction chemo), weight changes due to appetite fluctuations or steroids, “chemo brain” with temporary memory or focus issues, and mood swings or depression, especially if you feel isolated or frustrated.

Important: Every body reacts differently. Avoid Googling symptoms or side effects. What happened to someone else won’t necessarily happen to you, boy have we learned this. Please stay off social media, and do not compare yourself to others. You are unique, and so is your healing. Your doctors will monitor you closely and adjust your care as needed. Trust them. Ask questions. Keep a journal of how you’re feeling. It’s helpful for both your mental health and your medical team.

Trusted Resources You Can Rely On

Forget Google! These are safe, evidence-based, and deeply compassionate resources:

For Medical Understanding:

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS): www.lls.orgFree guides, peer connections, and financial support.

American Cancer Society: www.cancer.orgClear, practical information on treatment and survivorship.

CancerCare: www.cancercare.orgFree counseling and emotional support for patients and caregivers.

For Emotional & Peer Support:

Stupid Cancer: www.stupidcancer.orgSupport for young adults with cancer—because you’re not a kid, and not a retiree. This is your space.

Imerman Angels: www.imermanangels.orgGet matched 1:1 with a survivor who’s been where you are.

MyLifeLine: www.mylifeline.orgCreate a private support page to keep friends and family in the loop.

Final Thoughts: The Beginning of a Comeback

This diagnosis may have knocked you off your feet—but it’s not the end of your story. It’s the beginning of your comeback. There will be hard days. But there will also be good days. Days when your counts go up. Days when you can laugh again. Days when your hair starts growing back. Days when you feel—finally—like yourself again.

Like Eric, who once sat in a chemo chair just like you, and now walks the greens of Scottsdale every morning with strength, joy, and gratitude—you, too, will get there.

This is your mountain. And you were made to climb it. Fight hard, giving up is not an option.