Hi, I’ve just joined the forum and having recently been given a diagnosis of Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) at 50 from routine blood tests, any advice on coming to terms with it and anything to focus on health, nutrition and exercise to help with the future?
thanks
I am so glad that you have found us @Willow33, a great big welcome.
I am a female and I was diagnosed at 53yrs old with Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) through a blood test by a gynaecologist.
That was 21 yrs ago and I have been on active monitoring ever since.
I just follow a normal balanced diet with the odd treat.
I am a great walker and Pilates girl.
My 70th birthday was my best ever and I I have had the opportunity to reassess my life and what I want out of it and that is good family and friends, music, nature etc.
But my diagnosis was a great shock to me and it took me a long while to come to terms with it.
I still get anxious before and during all medical tests results and appointments
I manage my symptoms on a day to day basis, mainly fatigue, and that has taken time to work out my cause and effect.
I attach 3 links from the Blood Cancer UK website
Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) | Blood Cancer UK
Blood cancer and keeping active | Blood Cancer UK
Eating well with blood cancer | Blood Cancer UK
If you have a specialist nurse they are a good contact for questions.
The main thing is that you really look after and be kind to yourself.
Please do keep posting, I look forward to hearing more about you
Hello @Willow33
I can understand how you feel. I was diagnosed 10 years ago, and had one dose of treatment (FCR) then Retuximab and have been in remission ever since. I agree with Erica, have a good diet and keep as fit as you can. I too do Pilates and also a dance class. I walk as often as I can. I’m 72. This is a great forum for information and support. You can talk to someone too as well as messaging. Good luck. Keep in touch.
Hi Erica,
Thank you for your positive response and really pleased to hear that you are still mainly living a healthy active life. I have an 8 yr old boy, so I want to stay as well as I can, for as long as I can. I’m slowly getting my head around it and once they have stopped prodding and poking me to find out my position I’m sure I will settle into my new norm.
I will take a look at the links you have sent, as I have been resisting reading too much about it too early as I didn’t want the wrong information (google not always good) 
Thanks again for your message and I will keep updating on my position.
Thanks
Debbie
Hi Spimula,
Thanks for taking the time to reply, I really appreciate it. I’m fairly active already so happy to keep this going and my 8 yr old boy keeps me on my toes. Once all my test are over I’m sure I will start to feel a little calmer about things.
Thanks again.
Debbie
Hello Willow33
I’m 57, and got my Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) diagnosis in mid April this year.
Much like you, mine was found by chance, after having a PSA test and asking for a full blood count. Felt perfectly fine before, but now panic at the slightest twinge or if some one coughs or sneezes close by me.
Have been advised to maintain my diet but to also include some slow burning energy - carbohydrates, pasta (whole wheat) etc. Have had a referral to my local gym so going to that three times a week.
As for coming to terms with it, I’ve just tried to stay occupied (but not too busy) so that i can feel good about my day and what I’ve done - if only a little gardening or tidying up for example. This forum is great - to just reach out and like you - ask others how they are coping / what they are doing.
I hope I’ve been of some support and i hope you keep in touch via the forum - as it has been and remains an amazing support tool for me.
Take good care of you
Mike.