Blood – it’s in you to give, as the Canadian Blood Services (CBS) says, and “there’s a lot to give this holiday season.” That’s the title of a new CBS video featuring Adam, one of the Leukemia & Lymphoma (LLSC)’s dedicated blood cancer ambassadors.
Adam, of Toronto, is a blood and stem cell recipient who was diagnosed with leukemia two days after finding out he was going to become a father.
“This has been the first year since my second transplant as things have started to normalize. I am really looking forward to snowboarding this year for the first time with my daughter,” says Adam, shown in the short CBS video enjoying himself with wife Natasha and daughter Marquesa, now age 5.
As a LLSC blood cancer ambassador, Adam and others work, on an on-demand basis, to raise awareness about the needs of the blood cancer community, making sure those needs and preferences are communicated, alongside the LLSC advocacy team, to regulators, payors and other stakeholders.
Ambassadors also inform decision makers of inequities experienced by those affected by a blood cancer, and help clinicians deliver the best possible care for their patients.
LLSC is in the process of expanding its blood cancer ambassador program, looking to recruit more women affected by a blood cancer, those from an underrepresented minority, and those persons experiencing an acute leukemia, an MPN, MDS, as well as caregivers.
If you’re no longer receiving treatment for at least a year, or are stable that long or more, please contact Christina Sit to learn more.
LLSC echoes CBS’ sentiment, “there’s lot to give this holiday season.” Thank you, Adam and his fellow blood cancer ambassadors for all you do to give back!