CareCast: The CLL Society Podcast

In this episode of the CLL Society Carecast, we're joined by Ed McNichol — whose career as a deep-sea imaging specialist often takes him out to sea for extended periods. Ed shares his story of navigating life's unpredictable tides — balancing the demanding realities of his profession with the challenges of a CLL diagnosis. While frequently away from home, Ed found stability and empowerment through...

In this heartfelt episode, we're joined by Yvonne and her daughter, Noni, who open up about how a CLL diagnosis reshaped their family dynamic and strengthened their connection. Together, they share what it's been like to navigate shifting relationships with friends and loved ones while learning to adjust to life's new realities. Through the camaraderie and understanding found in support groups, Yv...

In this episode, we're joined by Henry Olvera, a former firefighter whose life took an unexpected turn after being diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Throughout his career, he relied on information to save lives, and that same mindset became essential when facing his own diagnosis. Determined not to let CLL define him, he quickly learned the importance of self-advocacy. He shares h...

In this episode, we dive into the powerful journey of Lexii Freitas, a young adult and mother facing CLL. Lexii shares with our moderator and CLL Society staff member, Sarah Castro, the raw reality of receiving a lifechanging diagnosis and how she has learned to navigate it with both courage and determination. She shares her experience with the isolation that can come when friends can't fully rela...

In this inspiring episode of   CareCast , lifelong athlete Ashley Montulli joins CLL Society's Development Director—and fellow CLL patient—Ron Katz for a powerful conversation on navigating life with CLL while balancing motherhood, fitness, and wellness. Ashley shares how staying active and making smart adjustments to her routine have helped her cope with lifestyle changes brought on by her diagno...

In the first episode of the second season of CareCast: The CLL Society Podcast, our moderator, Doreen Zetterlund, is joined by Rabbi Rebecca Kamil—a chaplain with over 10 years of experience—to discuss the emotional and spiritual challenges faced by CLL/SLL patients throughout their journey. During the conversation, Rabbi Kamil reflects on her own experiences supporting those affected by CLL/SLL....

In this discussion with CLL patient Peter Titlebaum , we explore the connection between lifestyle choices and non-medical approaches to managing chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), with a particular focus on their impact on mental health. Peter is a lifelong athlete , college professor at the University of Dayton , a n active member of a CLL Society Support Group , and has been living with CLL sin...

Approximately 53 million Americans serve as care partners to a loved one, with about 6 million of them providing care to individuals diagnosed with cancer. Susan Bottega is one of these dedicated care partners, supporting her husband since his diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in 2010. She reflects on the emotional impact of the initial diagnosis, the importance of becoming well-info...

It is estimated that between 75% and 95% of people diagnosed with CLL do not immediately start treatment . I nstead , they follow the standard of care approach known as Active Observation , also called Watch and Wait , Watch and Worry, or Active Surveillance . When receiving a diagnosis of cancer, it can be confusing and a source of anxiety to hear that you will not be given treatment right away ....

In this inaugural episode of CLL Society's CareCast Podcast, Executive Director, Carly Harrington is joined by Dr. Brian Koffman, Co- F ounder, Chief Medical Officer and Executive Vice President of CLL Society, to discuss his emotional journey with CLL. Dr. Koffman reflects on his initial diagnosis and the impact of having a strong support system and community to help him cope with the emotions he...

Entering treatment for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) can be an emotional time. In this clip, Dr. Brian Koffman shares the importance of having an optimistic mindset while also setting realistic expectations. The full episode is coming on September 17.

Welcome to CareCast! In this introductory message, Executive Director Carly Harrington invites listeners to our new podcast, CareCast: The CLL Society Podcast. Receiving a diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) can evoke a range of emotions, but here at CLL Society, we want you to know that you never have to face it alone. Throughout the podcast, we will explore living with CLL through re...