The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), the global nonprofit in funding blood cancer research, patient support, and advocacy, is becoming Blood Cancer United on August 28, in advance of Blood Cancer Awareness Month in September.
For more than 75 years, LLS has been committed to reaching and supporting the entire blood cancer community—patients, families, caregivers, researchers, health-care professionals, and partners—including those with blood cancers that aren’t leukemia and lymphoma. With more than 100 types of blood cancers, such as multiple myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes, and myeloproliferative neoplasms, LLS gathered extensive feedback from across its network and determined that now is the time for an evolution to better reflect the work and unity at the center of its mission.
“We are at a pivotal moment—not only for our organization, but for our community—when funding for cancer research and access to treatment and care are at risk,” said E. Anders Kolb, MD, President and Chief Executive Officer of LLS. “Patients and researchers are telling us they’re worried about the impact these changes will have for anyone dealing with blood cancer, so there’s no better time for a resource that helps us reach more of the patients who need us.
“The word ‘united’ is transformational and inviting,” added Dr. Kolb. “I believe in the power of bringing together patients, families, scientists, volunteers, donors, business leaders, and health systems under a shared purpose. Blood Cancer United reflects who we are today and who we aspire to be—a unifying force advancing progress for every person impacted by blood cancer.”
And when more people can be reached, the organization can get closer to its goal: “By 2040, we will enable patients with blood cancer to gain more than 1 million years of life.”
New Name, Same Mission
While LLS is evolving its name, the organization will continue to directly help patients by funding promising research, advancing innovative treatments, offering free support, and advocating for policies that help people access quality health care.
“This is more than a name change; it’s a call to action that’s more important than ever to ensure that every patient is seen, supported, and given a chance at life,” said Gwen Nichols, MD, Chief Medical Officer at LLS. “Blood Cancer United reflects the strength of an entire community, working together to ensure every person with blood cancer can live a longer, better life—people affected by all 100+ types of blood cancer, beyond leukemia and lymphoma. It sends a powerful message: We are here for you. No blood cancer patient has to go it alone.”
