What can people living with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) do to feel their best? This animated video shares how managing CLL, staying physically healthy, and prioritizing emotional well-being can help maintain a good quality of life.
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Transcript
Joseph:
Hi! I’m Joseph and I am living with CLL. I’m back again with Dr. Johnson, my doctor.
The Collaborate series is intended to help you live well with CLL. But what does that mean exactly? For me, it meant that I wanted to continue living my life as fully as possible and to not let CLL define me.
Dr. Johnson:
Those are great goals, Joseph! And CLL is different from other cancers, because immediate treatment isn’t always necessary. In fact, many people live full, active lives for years before any therapy is recommended. So, living well with CLL means learning to manage the disease, rather than just fight it.
Joseph:
And collaborating with your healthcare team is an essential part of managing CLL, right, Dr. Johnson?
Dr. Johnson:
It’s true. As you are monitored, you’ll undergo regular blood work and checkups to track how the CLL is behaving and watch for symptoms like enlarged lymph nodes or changes in blood counts.
And as a patient, you play a big part in that process—listening to your body, reporting changes, and staying engaged with your care.
Joseph:
Right! Don’t hesitate to speak up if you are experiencing symptoms or treatment side effects. Whenever I notice anything different, I make sure to let my team know right away, and we work together to find a solution.
Another part of living well is establishing healthy day-to-day habits. I do my best to keep up an active lifestyle, and it improves my health in many ways. Dr. Johnson, can you talk more about this?
Dr. Johnson:
I would be happy to. Your overall health continues to be important as you live with CLL. This includes:
- Getting regular physical activity to help with symptoms and to support your immune system. It seems counterintuitive, but exercise can actually improve fatigue.
- Making sure to eat a well-balanced diet and to stay hydrated.
- Next, prioritizing rest. Don’t feel guilty about napping or getting the sleep you need. It can make you feel better physically AND mentally.
- Always use sunscreen and wear protective clothing, since CLL can increase your chances of developing skin cancer.
- Continuing regular checkups with your primary care doctor to manage any other conditions.
- And, making sure you are practicing good hand hygiene and staying up to date on your vaccinations to protect against infections.
Joseph:
I want to add one more tip that I found vital—managing stress. Living well isn’t just about the physical side. It’s also about living a life that brings you joy and connection.
Dr. Johnson.
Absolutely! Emotional health is a huge part of living well with CLL. Whether it’s through therapy, meditation, or just talking with loved ones—it’s important to process what you’re feeling.
Many people find comfort in connecting with others. Support groups can offer practical advice, coping strategies, and a reminder to you that it is possible to live fully with CLL.
Joeseph:
I can attest to that! My support group has been there for me in so many ways throughout my experience with CLL.
Thanks for joining us! Be sure to download the resource guide that goes with this video and visit powerfulpatients.org/CLL to access more CLL information.