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

In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Maryanne Skarparis sits down with Associate Professor Dr James Morton to provide an in-depth look at blood and bone marrow transplantation in the treatment of leukaemia and related blood cancers.

Dr Morton shares what led him to specialise in transplant medicine, reflecting on early experiences that sparked his interest in how donor immune systems can contribute to curing blood cancers like leukaemia. He explains, the key considerations involved in assessing whether a patient is suitable for transplant, including age, overall fitness, and the risk of the cancer returning.

They explore topics such as graft versus host disease (GVHD), donor matching (including the process and significance of HLA typing), and advances in post-transplant care aimed at reducing complications. Dr Morton provides advice for patients and families about fertility preservation for both men and women, including the timing and processes involved before undergoing intensive therapies.

They discuss the emerging field of cellular therapies, such as CAR T-cell therapy, and how these treatments are being used to further harness the immune system to fight blood cancers. Dr Morton shares his perspective on patient decision-making, especially when weighing the risks and benefits of transplantation, and the importance of clear, informed consent for all involved.

Dr Morton and Maryanne emphasise the value of communication, support, and understanding not only for patients but also for families and carers navigating the complexities of blood cancer treatment and transplant recovery.

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 speaks with Cathy Koning about her experience living with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Cathy, now 72, was diagnosed 14 years ago and shares insights into her diagnosis, treatment journey, and the ongoing impact of life after stem cell transplant.

Cathy reflects on the early symptoms that led to her diagnosis, such as unexplained bruising and extreme tiredness. She describes the challenges around being heard by her healthcare providers and highlights the importance of persistence when seeking answers about unusual health changes.

They talked about the realities of treatment, including chemotherapy, intensive care, and the impact of sepsis. Cathy also discusses her experiences managing needle phobia, the support she found in online communities, and the transition from being a patient to providing care for her husband through his own cancer diagnoses. She speaks openly about life with chronic graft versus host disease, and the value of building resilience rather than framing herself as “brave”. Throughout, Cathy emphasises the importance of listening to your body, advocating for yourself, and making the most of each day.

Cathy’s perspective offers reassurance to others facing similar diagnoses, highlighting the importance of community, adaptability, and finding joy and purpose after blood cancer. For patients and carers alike, her story provides practical suggestions and emotional support for managing the many facets of living with and beyond blood cancer.

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 engages in a heartfelt conversation with Lauren Smith about her experiences surrounding blood cancer. Unlike the usual patient stories shared on the podcast, Lauren recounts her journey accompanying her late husband, Jakeb Smith, through his battle with stage four non-Hodgkin's lymphoma when both were just 21 years old.

Kate and Lauren delve into the challenges faced by young couples dealing with such life-altering circumstances. Lauren shares the emotional rollercoaster of Jakeb's initial symptoms, the struggle to get an accurate diagnosis, and the subsequent whirlwind of treatments.

They highlight the importance of a strong support network and how Lauren's experience inspired her to collaborate on a life-changing tool, called Gather My Crew, an app designed to streamline support for those in need during challenging times.

Lauren reflects on the importance of asking for and accepting help, emphasising how societal expectations can often inhibit individuals from reaching out. She speaks candidly about the grieving process following Jakeb's passing, how she navigated life without him, while finding purpose in both honoring his memory and supporting others facing similar struggles.

Links & Resources:

• Gather My Crew website: https://www.gathermycrew.org.au/

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 sits down with Ash Bell, who shares her journey with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) at the age of 11 and the challenges she faced throughout her treatment and recovery.

Ash recounts her active lifestyle before her diagnosis and the symptoms that led to her eventual hospitalisation, including severe back pain caused by crushed vertebrae. She discusses the difficulty of navigating treatment as a young person, including the loss of normalcy and the emotional impact of overhearing her cancer diagnosis instead of being directly informed.

They touched on the transition from illness to survivorship and the struggle to reintegrate a “normal” life while dealing with the lasting effects of treatment, both physically and emotionally. Ash also shares how her journey led her to a career in social work, focusing on providing support for people with blood cancer and advocating for mental health care during and after treatment.

Ash highlights the importance of acknowledging and working through the emotional and psychological impact of cancer, emphasising the need for nurturing one's mental wellbeing, alongside physical health. Her story illustrates resilience and the ongoing process of healing, providing valuable insights for both patients and caregivers.

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 welcomes Angela Daly, a Senior Social Worker at the Sunshine Coast University Hospital, and they discuss the challenges faced by patients diagnosed with blood cancer. Giving insights into her role in helping patients and their families navigate the complex healthcare system.

Angela shares the top priorities she addresses when meeting newly diagnosed blood cancer patients, emphasising the importance of understanding patients' support systems, their geographical location, and access to treatment facilities. Angela tells the difficulties faced by patients residing in remote areas who must travel extensively for treatment, and dealing with additional stresses such as financial costs and the complexities of coordinating care with existing family responsibilities.

Exploring the social worker's role in aiding patients to manage the emotional and logistical aspects of their diagnosis. Social workers help interpret medical information, connect patients with support services, and advocate on their behalf. Angela speaks on the value of fostering strong relationships with local and regional organisations like the Leukaemia Foundation, which play a pivotal role in providing support to blood cancer patients and their families.

Angela's personal experiences growing up in a remote area and her professional tenure at the Leukaemia Foundation grew her understanding of the healthcare needs of rural and regional patients. Her dedication to oncology social work is evident as she strives to make the cancer journey as manageable as possible for those affected.

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