In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Maryanne Skarparis speaks with guest Melissa Rodger, who shares her family's experience following her daughter Chloe’s diagnosis with acute myeloid leukaemia at just nine years old.

Melissa gives an honest recount of Chloe’s initial symptoms, the shock of diagnosis, and the rapid transition into hospital treatment, which included chemotherapy beginning in ICU. Melissa provides insights into the emotional toll the situation took on the entire family, discussing how they navigated the early days in a state of uncertainty and relied on the treating team’s guidance.

Exploring the complexities around treatment decisions, including the process of finding a donor for Chloe’s bone marrow transplant. Melissa explains that despite a thorough search, no suitable unrelated donor was found, and a haploidentical (half-matched) transplant using a parent’s cells became necessary—first from Melissa herself, and after a relapse, from Chloe’s father. She openly discusses both the practicalities and emotions involved in being a donor, as well as the family’s coping strategies during these challenging times.

They also talked about Chloe’s adjustment to life after treatment, her gradual return to school, and the ongoing efforts by Melissa and her family to support Chloe’s physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Melissa also offers advice on maintaining mental health as a parent or carer during a child’s cancer diagnosis, stressing the importance of hope, connection, and open communication within families.

For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au

The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network

In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Maryanne Skarparis sits down with guest Sharyn Polce to discuss Sharyn's lived experience with chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). Sharyn recounts her diagnosis almost 15 years ago and openly talks about the challenges she faced both before and after learning she had blood cancer.

Sharyn describes the symptoms that initially went unnoticed, such as unusual tiredness and persistent bruising, and shares the shock and uncertainty she felt upon diagnosis. Outlining her journey through multiple clinical trials, medication changes due to mutations, and eventually a stem cell transplant from an anonymous donor in Germany. Throughout, Sharyn reflects on the crucial role her support network played—including her adult children, her partner Troy, friends, and the Leukaemia Foundation—in helping her to manage the impact of her diagnosis and treatment.

Highlighting the importance of emotional wellbeing, positive mindset, and practical support for both patients and carers. Sharyn discusses the emotional stresses of living with blood cancer, including the strain on her relationships and self-confidence, as well as the support she received from professional counsellors and peer mentors.

Sharyn and Maryanne emphasise that everyone’s journey is different, but encourages listeners to not hesitate to seek support and to listen to their own bodies. Sharyn’s story is one of resilience, openness, and hope, offering comfort to those living with blood cancer and to the people who care for them.

For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au

The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network

In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Kate Arkadieff is joined by Chris Tanti, CEO of the Leukaemia Foundation, for a discussion on supporting people living with blood cancer. Unlike many episodes that focus on patient stories, this conversation offers a unique perspective from the organisational and leadership side of blood cancer support in Australia.

Chris reflects on his personal and professional journey, shaping his approach to leadership through his background in social work, family experiences, and roles across various areas of health and community services. He shares the importance of the patient’s lived experience in guiding the Leukaemia Foundation’s work, and the need to address both medical and psychosocial needs of people affected by blood cancer.

They delve into the essential role of family, community, and purpose in the recovery and adjustment journey after a cancer diagnosis. Chris explains how the Leukaemia Foundation aims to support patients not only during treatment, but returning to their communities as well.

Chris discusses future plans and directions for the Leukaemia Foundation, with a focus on increasing reach in regional Australia which ensures that no one faces blood cancer alone. This is a valuable resource for patients, families, carers, and health professionals seeking to understand the broader context of blood cancer support in Australia.

For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au

The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network