Processing childhood cancer in adulthood

[Ella_ALL]

Hi there,

I hope this post finds you well!

I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia  (ALL) back in 2005, aged 7. I completed treatment in early 2008. I'm very grateful to be in remission for almost 17 years. In ways it feels like it was a lifetime ago but I still sit with my ALL 'shadow' every day and know it has impacted me deeply and made me into the person I am today. 

I am now at the point in my life where I am wanting to better understand and process my Cancer journey. I feel there is a lot for me to learn and grow from as opposed for it being something I keep in a box at the back of my mind. When entering into remission, support after treatment wasn't really discussed. I know I have a lot I need to sift through but I'm trying to find a network and support services out there that work with those in long term remission. I'd also love to connect with fellow childhood Cancer survivors too and share my journey with anyone who is currently going through treatment. I would love to create a community that rallies behind one another despite where you are in your journey. 

Ella x

[Maddi_CCNSW]

Hi Ella_ALL

Welcome to Cancer Council's Online Community.  I hope you find the forum provides you with the community, support and information you are looking for.

If you live in Australia, you can also call our telephone support line 13 11 20, to find out about other support that is available to you.

Warm regards 

Maddi 

[Ella_ALL]

Hi Maddi,

Thank you so much for the welcome. That's great to hear! I'll be sure to contact the support line. I really appreciate it. 

[Sumeet]

Thank you for sharing your powerful journey with such honesty and heart. It's incredibly inspiring to hear how far you’ve come since your ALL diagnosis and the strength you've carried through remission. Processing the long-term impact of cancer is a deeply personal and ongoing journey, and seeking connection and support is a courageous next step. You are not alone; many survivors feel the same need to reflect, heal, and grow. Building a community of support and shared experience is a beautiful vision, and I’d be honoured to connect and stand with you on this path.