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Today is my cancerversary!

By Erin Zammett Ruddy on Wednesday, November 11, 8:37 am EST

Eight years ago today I was diagnosed with cancer. Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML). At the time I thought my life as I knew it was over. I assumed I’d be sick, bald, dying. But thanks to the miracle drug I take, my experience with cancer was nothing like I’d expected. No hair loss, no hospital stays, no chemo, no need to get sick just to get well. Sure, I may never be cured, but eight years later, I am still here. And I am a wife, a mother, a pregnant lady and (pretty much) cancer free. I could never have imagined all of that when I first heard the words, "You have cancer" eight years ago. Not too shabby, huh?

 

In other leukemia news, I’m sure you guys have read that basketball legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar just announced that he has CML too. I got to meet him on Monday (that's us in the photo above) and he was amazing. Super nice, super tall and doing great on his meds. We are two very lucky people and as I think about how blessed I am today—on my cancerversary—I can’t help but think of all of those patients and families who haven’t fared as well. We still have a long way to go when it comes to cancer research and finding better treatments so don’t forget to support your favorite cancer charities!

 


Member Comments
JLK's picture
JLK
That's an awesome picture!
11/11/2009 at 9:56 am
That's an awesome picture! And you look amazing!! :) You are an inspiration!


Meghan's picture
Meghan
I can't believe it's been
11/11/2009 at 12:54 pm
I can't believe it's been that long. You have come so far and done so much for the cause in the past eight years. I am proud of you Erin!


MistiP's picture
MistiP
Congrats!
11/11/2009 at 2:09 pm
I remember reading your articles in Glamour (wasn't that the magazine?) I'm so glad to see the update.


Lauren's picture
Lauren
Congratulations!
11/11/2009 at 5:31 pm
You're truly an inspiration Erin and I'm very happy for you and your family! Be proud of all you have accomplished....and I think you should go out for a nice dinner with Nick and celebrate!


Congratulations!
11/11/2009 at 6:55 pm
Erin, I am not sure if you would remember me. When you began writing about your story in Glamour, I was working in PR in the city & Felica had suggested I talk to you after my dad got diagnosed with CML. We had a very nice breakfast at your offices & you gave me a lot of information. I am so happy to hear that you are doing well & have a beautiful family. We lost my dad about 4 1/2 years ago, about a month after my twins were born. I miss him everyday. I also never forget all of the people that helped us along the way---including the wonderful editor who took some time to help my family out. Best of luck & another hundred years of health & happiness. Melisa


A great Cancer Charity!
11/12/2009 at 10:14 am
Shameless plug... if you're looking for a great cancer charity, Dana Farber in Boston is one of the best. I'm running the Boston Marathon in April to benefit Dana Farber! You can support me and this great charity to kick cancer's butt here: http://www.runDFMC.org/2010/kelleyl


Melissa's picture
Melissa
I can't believe it has been
11/12/2009 at 10:50 am
I can't believe it has been that long! You look great in that picture! I have never seen you look short before...:)


Glenda's picture
Glenda
When I heard about Kareem I
11/13/2009 at 1:04 pm
When I heard about Kareem I thought of you! How amazing you that you had a chance to meet him and have a photo taken! You've come a long way...and here's to 100 more years! Keep rocking! Have a great weekend! XX


Congratulations!
11/13/2009 at 3:49 pm
Thank you for sharing your cancer survivor story. I'm part of the #beatcancer movement and stories, like yours, makes everything worth it.


Midwest Chick's picture
Midwest Chick
CML
11/13/2009 at 5:01 pm
Thanks for the encouragement! I was diagnosed July 20, 2009 and I am doing well on meds. I plan to continue to do so!!!! You are an inspiration, even if you do look extremely short in that picture. Most important, you look amazingly happy and healthy. Keep on inspiring, you do it very well.


Erin Zammett Ruddy's picture
Erin Zammett Ruddy
Thanks!
11/16/2009 at 10:21 am
Thanks everyone! Melisa, I do remember you and I'm so sorry to hear about your dad. The truth is, for every amazing survivor story like mine, there are still people who aren't as lucky. Which is why I will never give up my role as advocate. And why I'm so glad KAJ is sharing his story. XO


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