September is Blood Cancer Awareness Month!

Every year, September marks Blood Cancer Awareness Month – a time to show support for those affected by blood cancers and raise awareness and funds to promote research efforts for life-saving cancer treatments.

Blood cancers are disorders characterized by uncontrolled production of white blood cells in the bone marrow or the lymphatic system. Over 137 forms of blood cancers have been identified to date, which can be categorized into three main groups – leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma. It is estimated that over 155,000 Canadians are affected by some form of blood cancer – with a new diagnosis every 24 minutes. Though survival rates for blood cancer have improved over the years, attributed to more advanced therapies, it remains the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Canada.

A cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatments can significantly impact the lives of those affected – and much work needs to be done towards improving the therapeutic options available to patients for a better quality of life. You can support the cause by:

· Volunteering with a patient support organization

· Participating in local blood cancer awareness events

· Donating towards cancer research and patient advocacy

In the words of Terry Fox, “Even if I don’t finish, others must continue…”

- Zaraa