The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast

Chris Pagliarulo A cancer diagnosis in your 20s or 30s can raise questions most people never expect to face so early in life. In this episode, we speak with Chris Pagliarulo, who was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma at the age of 29, about the medical, emotional, and practical realities of cancer during early adulthood. We explore issues that are especially relevant for adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients, including delayed diagnosis, fertility preservation, treatment side effects, career disruption, relationships, and finding connection with others who understand. While this conversation highlights experiences unique to AYAs, patients and caregivers of all ages may hear pieces of their own experience reflected in what Chris shares. DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT CLICK HERE to participate in our episode survey. Mentioned on this episode:  Young Adult Resources Hodgkin lymphoma Fertility and family planning resources Patti Robinson Kauffman First Connection® Light The Night Additional Blood Cancer United Support Resources:  Information Specialists  Financial support Online Chat Free Nutrition Consultations Free telephone/web patient programs  Free booklets  Clinical Trial Support Center Support groups  Caregiver support  Caregiver Workbook Survivorship Workbook Advocacy and Public Policy Patient Community Mental Health Resources The post A Young Adult Story: Cancer, Connection, and Life After Treatment first appeared on The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast.

Marlise Luskin, MD With so many new advances in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), understanding today’s treatment landscape can give patients a clearer, more hopeful outlook. In this episode, we speak with Marlise Luskin, MD of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, about what adults should know when facing a diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Dr. Luskin helps listeners understand how ALL develops, how subtypes are identified, and why genetics play an important role in guiding treatment. She discusses current therapies including chemotherapy, targeted agents and immunotherapies including CAR T-cell therapy, as well as how care teams monitor progress and manage side effects. While ALL is a complex disease, patients and caregivers will hear clear explanations, practical information, and meaningful reasons to feel hopeful about the advances shaping ALL care today. DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT CLICK HERE to participate in our episode survey. Mentioned on this episode:  Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) Minimal/measurable residual disease (MRD) fact sheet Allogeneic stem cell transplantation Clinical Trial Support Center ALL Children and Teens booklet Additional Blood Cancer United Support Resources:  Information Specialists  Financial support Online Chat Free Nutrition Consultations Free telephone/web patient programs  Free booklets  Support groups  Caregiver support  Caregiver Workbook Young Adult Resources Survivorship Workbook Advocacy and Public Policy Patient Community Mental Health Resources Episode supported by Syndax Pharmaceuticals Inc. The post Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): The New Tools Shaping Tomorrow first appeared on The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast.

Andrew Yee, MD Multiple myeloma can feel unfamiliar and overwhelming at first, but today’s advances tell a much brighter story. In this episode, Dr. Andrew Yee of Massachusetts General Hospital explains what myeloma is, how it’s diagnosed, and why new treatment options, from four-drug regimens to CAR T-cell therapy and bispecific antibodies, are transforming patient outcomes. With enthusiasm and relatable analogies, he highlights how patients may progress from periods of significant challenges to reaching a level of stability and well‑being that allows them to live fully. This conversation offers clarity, confidence, and real optimism for anyone navigating myeloma. DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT CLICK HERE to participate in our episode survey. Mentioned on this episode:  Multiple myeloma Amyloidosis Autologous stem cell transplantation CAR T-cell therapy Immunotherapy fact sheet Clinical Trial Support Center Additional Blood Cancer United Support Resources:  Information Specialists  Financial support Online Chat Free Nutrition Consultations Free telephone/web patient programs  Free booklets  Young Adult Resources Support groups  Caregiver support  Caregiver Workbook Survivorship Workbook Advocacy and Public Policy Patient Community Mental Health Resources Episode supported by AbbVie Inc.; Bristol Myers Squibb; Genentech, A Member of the Roche Group; GSK plc.; Johnson & Johnson. The post Facing Multiple Myeloma: A Guide to Choices, Care, and Confidence first appeared on The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast.

CAR T‑cell therapy is redefining what personalized cancer treatment can look like, offering real promise for patients and families. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Richard Maziarz and CAR T Nurse Coordinator Bashi Ratterree of Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). Together, they explain how CAR T‑cell therapy works, who may be eligible, what patients can expect during treatment and recovery, and the promising advancements shaping the future of this innovative therapy. DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT CLICK HERE to participate in our episode survey. Mentioned on this episode:  CAR T-cell therapy Clinical Trial Support Center CAR T-Cell Therapy: A Path of Hope and Healing Video Series Bloodline Breakthroughs: innovations and inspiration video podcast: CAR T-cell Therapy Hematology Horizons vlog:  CAR T-Cell Therapy and the Patient Experience CAR T-Cell Therapy: Side Effects video   Additional Blood Cancer United Support Resources:  Information Specialists  Financial support Online Chat Free Nutrition Consultations Free telephone/web patient programs  Free booklets  Young Adult Resources Support groups  Caregiver support  Caregiver Workbook Survivorship Workbook Advocacy and Public Policy Patient Community Mental Health Resources Episode supported by Bristol Myers Squibb; Johnson & Johnson & Legend Biotech;  Kite, a Gilead Company; Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. The post Inside CAR T‑Cell Therapy: How Innovation Is Changing Lives first appeared on The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast.

Stefan Barta, MD, MS Cutaneous T‑cell lymphoma (CTCL) is a rare condition that often raises important questions for patients and families. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Stefan Barta, of the University of Pennsylvania, to bring clarity to what CTCL is, how it’s diagnosed, and what patients can expect from staging and treatment. Dr. Barta breaks down the differences between CTCL subtypes, explains why diagnosing someone can take time, and shares the most up-to-date therapies, including skin directed treatments, immunotherapies, and emerging clinical trial options. Most importantly, he offers reassurance for those newly diagnosed: “The future is absolutely bright… there is a lot of hope for our patients with CTCL.” DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT CLICK HERE to participate in our episode survey. Mentioned on this episode:  Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma Cutaneous Lymphoma Foundation Clinical Trial Support Center Additional Blood Cancer United Support Resources:  Free Nutrition Consultations Information Specialists  Financial support Online Chat Free telephone/web patient programs  Free booklets  Young Adult Resources Support groups  Caregiver support  Caregiver Workbook Survivorship Workbook Advocacy and Public Policy Patient Community Mental Health Resources Episode supported by Kyowa Kirin, Inc. and Cutaneous Lymphoma Foundation.The post Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma (CTCL): Illuminating a Brighter Path Forward first appeared on The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast.

Mikkael A. Sekeres, MD, MS Curious about what’s new in the world of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS)? We’re bringing you the latest insights straight from one of the field’s leading experts. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Mikkael Sekeres, of the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at University of Miami Health. Recorded onsite at the 2025 ASH (American Society of Hematology) Annual Meeting and Exposition, this conversation explores what MDS is, how it’s treated today, and what researchers are learning about managing side effects. Dr. Sekeres also walks us through the most notable MDS updates presented at ASH, highlighting promising therapies and clinical trial data that may help shape future care. Whether you’re newly learning about MDS or following ongoing research, this episode offers an accessible look at where things stand and what’s on the horizon. *This is not an official program of the ASH annual meeting DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT CLICK HERE to participate in our episode survey. Mentioned on this episode:  Myelodysplastic syndromes International Prognostic Scoring System for MDS American Society of Hematology Highlights from ASH vlog Blood cancer research 2026: Meeting patients where they want to be | blog post Additional Blood Cancer United Support Resources:  Free Nutrition Consultations Information Specialists  Financial support Clinical Trial Support Center Online Chat Free telephone/web patient programs  Free booklets  Young Adult Resources Support groups  Caregiver support  Caregiver Workbook Survivorship Workbook Advocacy and Public Policy Patient Community Mental Health Resources Episode supported by Geron Corporation and Taiho Oncology, Inc.The post The Bloodline Live! Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) Updates in Research first appeared on The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast.

Ann Grace MacMullan, C-IAYT In this episode, we sit down with Ann Grace MacMullan, Director of Integrative Wellness at the International Waldenstrӧm’s Macroglobulinemia Foundation (IWMF), to explore how wellness can become a powerful part of life after a cancer diagnosis. Ann Grace shares practical, calming techniques, including breathing exercises, “Bee’s Breath”, and guided meditation, that you can do anywhere to reduce stress and feel more grounded. We’ll also dive into what integrative wellness really means, why it matters for blood cancer patients, and how concepts like the “self-care sandwich” can help you start and end your day with intention. DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT CLICK HERE to participate in our episode survey. Mentioned on this episode:  Integrative oncology Palliative care How Do I Use Breathing To Manage Anxiety? IWMF wellness videos Integrative Oncology podcast episode International Waldenstrom’s Macroglobulinemia Foundation (IWMF) Additional Blood Cancer United Support Resources:  Free Nutrition Consultations Information Specialists  Financial support Clinical Trial Support Center Online Chat Free telephone/web patient programs  Free booklets  Young Adult Resources Support groups  Caregiver support  Caregiver Workbook Survivorship Workbook Advocacy and Public Policy Patient Community Mental Health Resources The post Hope Meets Healing: Simple Practices for Stress Relief first appeared on The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast.

Jean Koff, MD, MSc Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) can sound overwhelming, but what does it really mean for patients and families? In this episode, we speak to Dr. Jean Koff of Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, who breaks down the big picture of NHL: what it is, how it’s an umbrella term for multiple subtypes, and what today’s treatments and tomorrow’s innovations could mean for you. From understanding subtypes and staging to exploring options like watchful waiting, chemotherapy, and cutting-edge immunotherapies, we cover what matters most: knowledge, clarity, and hope. DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT CLICK HERE to participate in our episode survey. Mentioned on this episode:  Non-Hodgkin lymphoma The Lymphoma Guide Lugano staging system Immunotherapy fact sheet CAR T-cell therapy Allogeneic stem cell transplantation Clinical Trial Support Center Online NHL Chat Additional Blood Cancer United Support Resources:  Free Nutrition Consultations Information Specialists  Financial support Free telephone/web patient programs  Free booklets  Young Adult Resources Support groups  Caregiver support  Caregiver Workbook Survivorship Workbook Advocacy and Public Policy Patient Community Mental Health Resources Supported by AbbVie Inc. and Genentech, A Member of the Roche Group.The post The Big Picture on Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Treatments, Trends, and Tomorrow first appeared on The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast.

Michell Fullmer, RDN, LDN, CSP, CNSC Nutrition plays a powerful role in supporting children through cancer treatment, but it’s not always easy for caregivers to know what’s best, especially when there are taste changes, appetite shifts, and treatment side effects. In this episode, we sit down with Michell Fullmer, a registered dietitian at Nemours Children’s Hospital, to share practical insights that simplify nutrition during cancer care, reduce mealtime stress, and empower caregivers to make choices that help their child feel better every day. Join us for myth-busting, actionable tips, and reassurance from an expert who has guided countless families through this important part of care. DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT CLICK HERE to participate in our episode survey. Mentioned on this episode:  Free Nutrition Consultations Nemours Children’s Health Blood Cancer United Dare To Dream Project Navigating Cancer for Children and Teens HealthyWeight.gov Additional Blood Cancer United Support Resources:  Information Specialists  Free telephone/web patient programs  Clinical Trial Support Center Advocacy and Public Policy Free booklets  Financial support Young Adult Resources Support groups  Survivorship Workbook Community Caregiver support  Caregiver Workbook Mental Health Resources Supported by Nemours Children’s Health. The post Nutrition Made Simple: Helping Kids Thrive During Cancer Treatment first appeared on The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast.

Abdulraheem Yacoub, MD In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Abdulraheem Yacoub of The University of Kansas Cancer Center to discuss myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN), a group of rare blood cancers that affect how blood cells are produced. We explore what MPNs are, the most common types, and the signs and symptoms that lead to diagnosis. We also answer real questions from members of our MPN online chat community, covering topics like life expectancy, genetic mutations, and managing side effects. Finally, we discuss current treatment options, emerging therapies, and share a message of hope for patients and their loved ones. DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT CLICK HERE to participate in our episode survey. Mentioned on this episode:  Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) MPN Online Chat MPN-SAF Symptom Assessment Form MPN Research Consortium Tissue Bank Bispecific antibody/immunotherapy fact sheet CAR T-cell therapy Additional LLS Support Resources:  Free Nutrition Consultations Information Specialists  Free telephone/web patient programs  Clinical Trial Support Center Advocacy and Public Policy Free booklets  Financial support Young Adult Resources Support groups  Survivorship Workbook Community Caregiver support  Caregiver Workbook Mental Health Resources Supported by PharmaEssentia USA Corporation.The post After Diagnosis: Finding Hope with Myeloproliferative Neoplasms first appeared on The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast.

When cancer enters a family, it changes everything – routines, roles, and relationships. In this episode, we talk with Lindsey and Thomas Kealey about what it means to navigate cancer together as a care partner and patient. From unexpected diagnoses to months spent living in a hospital room, Lindsey shares how she balanced caregiving, work, and self-care while learning to hold space for difficult emotions. Together, they offer practical tips for caregivers, like creating healing spaces, communicating with care teams, and finding small moments of gratitude amid uncertainty. This heartfelt conversation is a reminder that behind every patient is someone quietly carrying so much and they deserve to be seen too. DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT CLICK HERE to participate in our episode survey. Mentioned on this episode:  Caregiver support  Caregiver Workbook Additional LLS Support Resources:  Free Nutrition Consultations Information Specialists  Free telephone/web patient programs  Clinical Trial Support Center Write it Out Journal Advocacy and Public Policy Free booklets  Financial support Young Adult Resources Support groups  Survivorship Workbook Community Mental Health Resources The post Supporting the Supporter: Real Talk for Caregivers first appeared on The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast.

John Burke, MD MRD (minimal/measurable residual disease) testing is changing the way doctors understand and monitor blood cancers.  In this episode, we talk with Dr. John Burke of the Rocky Mountain Cancer Center about how MRD testing works, what the results mean to patients and their care teams, and how ongoing clinical research is helping shape more personalized and hopeful approaches to treatment.  DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT CLICK HERE to participate in our episode survey. Mentioned on this episode:  Minimal/Measurable Residual Disease (MRD) fact sheet Minimal/Measurable Residual Disease (MRD) chart CAR T-cell therapy Additional LLS Support Resources:  Free Nutrition Consultations Information Specialists  Free telephone/web patient programs  Clinical Trial Support Center Advocacy and Public Policy Free booklets  Financial support Young Adult Resources Support groups  Survivorship Workbook Community Caregiver support  Caregiver Workbook Mental Health Resources Supported by Adaptive Biotechnologies Corporation and Allogene Therapeutics. The post MRD Explained: What it Means for You and Your Care first appeared on The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast.

Bethany Lilly Choosing the right health insurance plan can make all the difference in protecting your health and finances. In this episode, Bethany Lilly, Executive Director of Public Policy at Blood Cancer United, discusses important updates to healthcare insurance enrollment for 2026. Bethany explains what patients and caregivers need to know about changes to the Healthcare Marketplace and Medicare, how to avoid falling into medical debt, and the resources available to help you make informed decisions. Whether you’re reviewing employer coverage, Marketplace plans, or Medicare options, this episode will help you prepare with confidence. DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT CLICK HERE to participate in our episode survey. Mentioned on this episode:  Medical Debt Case Management (help choosing the right plan) How Do I? Insurance video series Healthcare.gov (Marketplace open enrollment) Medicare.gov (Medicare open enrollment) SHIP (State Health Insurance Plan) Get Involved: Renewing Enhanced Premium Tax Credits Advocacy and Public Policy State Marketplaces Open Enrollment Information Additional LLS Support Resources:  Free Nutrition Consultations Information Specialists  Free telephone/web patient programs  Clinical Trial Support Center Free booklets  Financial support Young Adult Resources Support groups  Survivorship Workbook Community Caregiver support  Caregiver WorkbookMental Health Resources The post Health Coverage for 2026 and Protecting Yourself from Medical Debt first appeared on The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast.

Anand Jillella, MD In this episode of The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United, Elissa and guest co-host, Kristen Parker, speak with Dr. Anand Jillella, of Georgia Cancer Center. Together, they explore acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL)—a rare but highly curable subtype of acute myeloid leukemia. Dr. Jillella explains the rapid onset of APL, its hallmark signs and symptoms, and how targeted treatments have transformed outcomes for patients. Kristen, an APL survivor and Blood Cancer United Patient & Community Outreach Manager, also shares her personal perspective. Listeners will gain valuable insight into why APL stands apart as one of the most treatable forms of leukemia today. DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT CLICK HERE to participate in our episode survey. Mentioned on this episode:  Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) Differentiation syndrome SEER (Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results Program) database Additional LLS Support Resources:  Free Nutrition Consultations Information Specialists  Free telephone/web patient programs  Clinical Trial Support Center Advocacy and Public Policy Free booklets  Financial support Young Adult Resources Support groups  Survivorship Workbook Community Caregiver support  Caregiver Workbook Mental Health Resources The post Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APL): Advances, Hope, and Healing first appeared on The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast.

Andy Kolb, MD Eric Cooks, PhD Bryon Daily In this special episode of The Bloodline, we introduce our new name and what it means for blood cancer patients, caregivers, and the wider community. Joining us from Blood Cancer United are Dr. Andy Kolb, President & CEO; Dr. Eric Cooks, Senior Director of the Equity & Access Research Program; and Bryon Daily, myeloma survivor and Senior Manager of National Community Outreach. Together, they share why inclusivity and unity are at the heart of Blood Cancer United and how this evolution strengthens our mission to support every person impacted by blood cancer. DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT CLICK HERE to participate in our episode survey. Mentioned on this episode:  Blood Cancer United Patient-Doctor Perspectives: Hope for Myeloma Patients Community Outreach In The Field: Blood and Chess Atlanta Clinical Trial Support Center Advocacy and Public Policy Additional LLS Support Resources:  Free Nutrition Consultations Information Specialists  Free telephone/web patient programs  Free booklets  Financial support Young Adult Resources Support groups  Survivorship Workbook Community Caregiver support  Caregiver Workbook Mental Health Resources The post We are Blood Cancer United: a new name, an unstoppable community first appeared on The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast.

Eduardo Bruera, MD En este episodio damos la bienvenida al Dr. Eduardo Bruera, distinguido oncólogo médico y jefe del Departamento de Medicina Paliativa, Rehabilitación y Medicina Integrativa en la División de Medicina Oncológica del MD Anderson Cancer Center. Acompáñanos mientras el Dr. Bruera nos ayuda a comprender mejor los cuidados paliativos, definiéndolos y desmintiendo ideas erróneas comunes, al mismo tiempo que explica su verdadero propósito y cómo los pacientes y cuidadores pueden experimentar una mejor calidad de vida al combinar este cuidado de apoyo con sus terapias activas contra el cáncer. Esto es más que una conversación, es un paso hacia una mejor atención y días más brillantes. DESCARGAR TRANSCRIPCIÓN HAGA CLIC AQUI para participar en la encuesta del episodio. Mencionado en este episodio: Manejo de efectos secundarios Atención paliativa Comunicación con el equipo de profesionales médicos: tratamiento Comunicación con el equipo de profesionales médicos: sin necesita tratamiento adicional Recursos adicionales de soporte de LLS:  Apoyo Economico  Apoyo entre pares  Alimentos y nutrición  Centro de Apoyo para Ensayos Clinicos  Especialistas en Información    LLS.org/Espanol  Manuales del cuidador  Manuales del sobreviviente     Publicaciones informativas gratuitas   Webcast, Videos Y Episodios de Pódcast  The post Cuidados paliativos: Más de lo que piensas first appeared on The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast.

Dianne Callahan In this episode, we speak with Dianne Callahan, four-time cancer survivor, best-selling author, speaker, and patient advocate. Dianne shares her experiences with non-Hodgkin lymphoma and breast cancer, stem cell transplant, and survivorship while highlighting the importance of advocacy, joy, and intention in life after diagnosis. From her work with fundraising campaigns to legislative advocacy on Capitol Hill, Dianne offers inspiring insights on resilience, hope, and the power of living intentionally. DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT CLICK HERE to participate in our episode survey. Mentioned on this episode:  Non-Hodgkin lymphoma Stem cell transplantation Allogeneic stem cell transplantation animated video NMDP (formerly Be The Match) Light The Night Visionaries of the Year Team In Training Advocacy and Public Policy Caregiver support  Caregiver Workbook Mental Health Resources Additional LLS Support Resources:  Free Nutrition Consultations Information Specialists  Free telephone/web patient programs  Free booklets  LLS Clinical Trial Support Center Financial support Young Adult Resources Support groups  Survivorship Workbook LLS Community  Supported by Genentech, A Member of the Roche Group.The post Joy, Hope, and Healing Beyond a Cancer Diagnosis first appeared on The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast.

What happens when a sibling match becomes the key to survival? In this heartfelt episode, we speak with Peter and Susan Feinberg, a brother-sister duo connected by both family and a lifesaving stem cell transplant. Peter, an acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) survivor, shares his experience from diagnosis to remission, while Susan offers a rare and intimate view into what it means to be a stem cell donor. Together, they reflect on the emotional and logistical challenges of transplant, the determination to succeed when miles apart, and the hope it represents. Their story sheds light on the real impact of donation—and why joining the registry can mean everything to someone waiting. DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT CLICK HERE to participate in our episode survey. Mentioned on this episode:  Stem cell transplantation Allogeneic stem cell transplantation animated video Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) Patient-Doctor Perspectives: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) NMDP (formerly Be The Match) BMT Infonet PubMed Caregiver support  Caregiver Workbook Additional LLS Support Resources:  Free Nutrition Consultations Information Specialists  Free telephone/web patient programs  Free booklets  LLS Clinical Trial Support Center Financial support Young Adult Resources Support groups  Survivorship Workbook Advocacy and Public Policy LLS Community Mental Health Resources The post Siblings, Stem Cells, and Second Chances first appeared on The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United Podcast.