Diagnosed with CLL at 40 (Oct 2022) - broken mess

[vman82]

Hello from the SF Bay area

Father of 2 (6 and 3 years), Happily married - Recently diagnosed with CLL (Sept 2022)

Mentally and emotionally a mess

There a gazillion thoughts in my head - dazed, shock and confusion

Anxiety is something I never had before this diagnosis and with 2 young kids its not easy - my wife is a super woman and holding the fort but I cannot feel anything except helplessness

My smile has just about disappeared - I just feel broken - typing this message brings tears

Please do share your stories for me to try and feel there is some hope

[KL2018]

We have all had that first day. It is a shock for most of us, and even though I’m an RN, I didn’t even know what it was! There is almost never a rush with CLL. In the beginning I was terrified that I’d “wake up sick”. Well it’s been 5 years, and though my labs have progressed :- /, I am still feeling good, am energetic, and have packed those years full of memories. I cried for 6 months and still have my days. The day is coming (I promise you) where you will forget you have this! You may even go days without even thinking about it. Be kind to yourself, and in time the fear will abate some.

[KL2018 in reply to KL2018]

My name is Kaaren McConaughy Lee. You can message me through Facebook. I’d be happy to provide some encouragement and positive facts!

[vman82 in reply to KL2018]

Thank you so much Kaaren !

All your responses have been very motivating for me, yes I will have my bad days, but based on the responses from my new extended family, we are all in this together and will get through this together

❤️ Vishaal

[Bfrafford1972]

I was diagnosed with CLL in 2016 which made me 43 at the time....i understand what u are going through trust me...look me up on FB. Brent Rafford....and friend me...we can discuss further...