Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia Support Group

The Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia Support Group (CML Support Group) is the UK’s only support group for patients suffering from chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). Currently, around 600 people in the UK alone are living with CML – a disease which develops slowly, producing too many of a certain kind of white blood cell – the granulocyte. Eventually, the cells begin to gather in the spleen causing it to increase in size. Over time, CML sufferers may experience abdominal discomfort, frequent infections, bone pain and fatigue. The CML Support Group is a place where patients can speak to other patients, and carers can seek emotional respite and advice from people in a similar situation to them. The group also works towards a number of goals: • To provide emotional and expert support to patients, including the advisory leaflet ‘You Are Not Alone’ • To support professional healthcare workers • To represent CML patients during drug reimbursement appraisals at national government meetings • To support patients receiving treatment originating from the EU The CML Support Group also believes that patients living with chronic illnesses are in the best position to know exactly what they need to manage their condition. This is also known as The EPP (The Expert Patient Programme), which is based on two decades of research carried out in the UK and the US. It allows patients to make informed decisions and be in control of their treatment choices, working closely with their doctors and healthcare teams. The CML Support Group focuses on helping patients to receive the best care possible so that they have one less thing to worry about.