In April 2023, something felt off—I was more fatigued and bruised than usual. After blood work, I received a call on April 11th with alarming results: signs pointed to leukemia.

Rushed to an academic hospital, and I was admitted to Northwestern late that same Tuesday night. Following days of tests, including CTs, ultrasounds, and a bone marrow biopsy, I was diagnosed with PH+ B-Cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia on April 16th.

It hit me like a ton of bricks—I was shocked, scared, and mad, all at once. The hardest part? Being away from my kids.

I spent weeks in the hospital, missing Mother’s Day and my 40th birthday, while undergoing intense chemo. Supported by my amazing husband, Omar, and our family and friends, we fought together.

After 8 cycles of chemo, I’m now in the maintenance phase, with monthly appointments and transfusions. Remission for almost 3 months now, I’m grateful for the outpouring of love and support that carried me through.

Thank you to everyone who’s been there—I’ll never forget your kindness and positivity.

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