Newly Diagnosed, Scared but Hopeful

[Guest guest]

To all:

I was diagnosed just last Monday after a white count of

24,000 appeared on a routine blood test. To say I was

shocked is an understatement. I apparently have no symptoms

although my oncologist scheduled me for a CT scan tomorrow.

Even without the scan, he said I'm probably at Stage 0 and

looking at watching and waiting or, as one doctor saw on the

internet put it, " active monitoring. "

I'm 54 years old. I've been spending all of my available

time obtaining information and this group has been great.

Physically, I feel fine. I am, however, thoroughly

frightened. Since Monday, though, I have been almost

overwhelmed with information, but similarly overwhelmed with

the concern shown to me by family, friends and doctors. I

see, and feel, a strong sense of community and solidarity

among the members of this group and CLL patients in general

and it is comforting to me. I'm also encouraged by the fact

that there are some very smart people doing some very

exciting and promising research.

After reading many of your stories, I do think it would be

in my best interests to see an oncologist who specializes in

CLL. I'm in the Miami, Florida area but I'm able to travel.

I'd appreciate any recommendations.

Believe me, I'm not happy to be here, but I feel privileged

to be in the company of such caring people. Thanks.