Our stories

Without personal stories from people affected by leukaemia, it would be impossible for us to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of the disease and fundraise for further research. If you would like to share your leukaemia journey, please get in touch with us on communications@leukaemiauk.org.uk

Alice Bolton: “In an hour I went from being in the doctors’ areas to being a patient”

14 Apr 2025 Patient

Alice Bolton: “In an hour I went from being in the doctors’ areas to being a patient”

The moment they are told they have leukaemia is rarely something any patient forgets. But for Alice Bolton it was...

Leukaemia UK’s response to the Major Conditions Strategy

29 August 2023 Policy

Leukaemia UK’s response to the Major Conditions Strategy

In January of this year, the Government announced it would publish a Major Conditions Strategy, with the aim of tackling...

“My world came crashing down when Jim’s AML returned”

24 August 2023 Awareness

“My world came crashing down when Jim’s AML returned”

“I have learnt that whatever symptoms you develop, you must get checked out and be insistent on blood tests. Men...

George and Rita’s extra year together

23 August 2023 Patient

George and Rita’s extra year together

George Esson CBE had a long and distinguished career in policing. As Chief Constable of Dumfries and Galloway Police he...

Coping with sudden changes in my body

22 August 2023 Awareness

Coping with sudden changes in my body

Ricky Lee Kennedy and his wife Sam were thrilled to get the keys to their first home in August 2022....

A second chance in life for Fred

17 August 2023 Patient

A second chance in life for Fred

Forty years as a hockey player, coach and manager, and 17 years as a keen runner, meant Fred Dick was...

How hot flushes, a chest infection and tiredness led to Leila’s CML diagnosis

3 August 2023 Awareness

How hot flushes, a chest infection and tiredness led to Leila’s CML diagnosis

Many women in their 40s and 50s initially mistake their leukaemia symptoms for the onset of menopause. Leila Richardson put...

“Leukaemia doesn’t define who you are” – Kev and Verity’s story

3 August 2023 Awareness

“Leukaemia doesn’t define who you are” – Kev and Verity’s story

“I have been extremely lucky, I have never had any restrictions to my life over the last 21 years and...

Living with CLL – Alice spreads the word about symptom awareness

1 August 2023 Awareness

Living with CLL – Alice spreads the word about symptom awareness

Despite six years of recovery from leukaemia, Alice sadly passed away in January 2024. But her story of positivity, and...