You and the team have done such an incredible job with a diverse set of topics and providing so much helpful and practical information.
Dr. Danielle Rice is a Clinical and Health Psychologist and Clinical Lead at the Mood Disorders Treatment and Research Clinic at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, and an Assistant Professor at McMaster University in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences.
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James, 73, is a partner in a chartered professional accounting firm. In December 2024, James endured a mini-stroke that started this all. “They took my blood and found out my blood platelets were really high,” says James. “The doctor explained that this likely meant I had a form of blood cancer.”
“Next thing I know, I’m at the stroke clinic one week and the cancer clinic the next week, juggling all these doctors’ appointments,” says James.
The diagnosis came as a shock, but James’ reaction to his diagnosis was pragmatic. “Everybody’s got something,” he says. “I’m not going to go home and start crying. You just get at it and deal with it.”
Separated from his wife and without a caregiver, James turned elsewhere for support. He contacted Heal Canada, an organization focused on patient advocacy through empowerment, engagement and education. “My friend started the non-profit after her husband died from MF,” says James. “She helped me ask the right questions and navigate this journey. She was a big help.”
Patient organizations play a vital role in empowering Canadians as they navigate the challenges of a blood cancer diagnosis. Alongside Heal Canada, the Canadian MPN Network stands out as a key resource, offering invaluable education, fostering connections to essential support services and acting as a bridge to the medical community for Canadians living with MF.
