New Member

I was shocked when recently diagnosed with CLL. I just turned 60, have grandkids close by and a fabulous husband. My life has been perfect. I zoned out when I received the diagnosis and have gone from depression to anger -- why me! Are these normal reactions? I think I am getting a grip, but still have my moments. Also, is there some diet plan and/or vitamin regime I should be following? I am in stage one with monthly blood testing and a watch only treatment at this time. Does this sound right to everyone? Any tips for beating fatigue? Also, how do I tell my family? Any advice will be greatly appreciated.

I think your reactions are normal. CLL can be a rather beningn disease and many people live years with it. Information is key. Make sure you learn alot about your disease. Watch and wait may be OK, but that depends on the test results you had or may be getting. Eating right, and getting exercise will help. For fatigue, ask about your hemoglobin level. If low you can get meds to increase it. Be honost with your family, they deserve to know. I also include a great web site to learn more about CLL.

http://www.clltopics.org/A%20CLL%20Primer.htm

Come back and ask more questions if you need to. You have a cancer that you can live with for a long time. Be thankful for that. But you also need to get informed so you can fight this thing.
God bless.