Donate During Leukaemia Appeal Week

MEDIA RELEASE
1 November 2010

Donate During Leukaemia Appeal Week, Says Survivors

Leukaemia Appeal Week, 1-7 November, is the Leukaemia & Blood Foundation’s (LBF) national appeal week to support patients and families living with a blood cancer.

This Leukaemia Appeal Week, several leukaemia champions, all survivors, are participating in a national awareness campaign. They are calling on New Zealanders to donate to help the estimated 6 New Zealanders a day diagnosed with a blood cancer or condition like leukaemia.

One supporter, Milly Farrand, who was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) in March 2008, said: “It’s hard always having to put on a brave face and sometimes you feel like a freaky sideshow. Leukaemia is not a spectator sport. My advice to friends and family of cancer patients is to give them space. Call the Leukaemia & Blood Foundation if you have questions or want more information – they are there just as much for family and friends as for the patients.”

Milly’s story along with others can be read on the LBF website. It is estimated that there are currently 10,000 New Zealanders living with a blood cancer such as leukaemia or lymphoma.

Leukaemia is the most common childhood cancer and these blood cancers can strike anyone, of any age, at any time, without warning. Often immediate treatment is required and that treatment can go on for months or even years. The result of being diagnosed with a blood cancer can also have a major financial impact on the patients and families.

Pru Etcheverry, LBF Executive Director, says: “So many New Zealanders know someone who has been diagnosed with leukaemia. A diagnosis of a blood cancer can have far-reaching consequences.

We are passionate about easing the immense stress people face as they cope with their diagnosis, treatment and living with their condition. Leukaemia Appeal Week is one way we raise awareness of these blood cancers.”

The LBF is a national organisation dedicated to supporting New Zealand’s patients, their families and whānau living with blood cancers or conditions. The LBF is committed to improving the quality of life for these patients and their families by providing patient support services, research, information, awareness and advocacy.

The LBF receives no government funding and relies on public donations, sponsorship and grants to continue their services. For more information or to donate go to www.leukaemia.org.nz or call 0800 15 10 15

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