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Recently Diagnosed with Leukemia?

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If you've recently been diagnosed with leukemia, the news can be shocking and overwhelming. There's a lot to learn about the disease, and you likely have many questions and concerns about the days, weeks, and months ahead.  

At Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers (RMCC), our goal is to guide you through this time and help you prepare for treatment both physically and mentally. We understand how difficult a diagnosis can be, and we are committed to supporting you, empowering you with information, and partnering with you through recovery and beyond.

With some of the brightest minds, cutting-edge therapies, and a compassionate care team, we will face leukemia head-on together.

What Kind of Doctor Should I See? 

Many people diagnosed with leukemia—a type of blood cancer—are already seeing a blood specialist, called a hematologist. If that's the case for you, this doctor will likely oversee leukemia treatment. Most hematologists are board-certified in both hematology and medical oncology.

If you weren’t diagnosed by a hematologist, your first step is to find a hematologic oncologist who can develop your leukemia treatment plan.

When evaluating the cancer specialists in your area, consider their experience and access to the latest treatment options, including clinical trials. If possible, choose a specialist in a convenient location, as you will likely have multiple appoints.

In addition to your hematologist, other professionals involved in your care may include:

Radiation Oncologist

If radiation therapy is a part of your leukemia treatment plan, a radiation oncologist will oversee this aspect of your care. 

Advanced Practice Providers

Nurse practitioners and physician associates may see you during some appointments. Feel free to talk with them about how you’re feeling and ask any questions you may have. They work closely with your oncologist to ensure your concerns are addressed right away.

Triage Nurses

Triage nurses work closely with your physician to support your care. They can answer many common questions and will consult with the oncologist whenever needed.

Infusion Nurses

Infusion nurses work in the cancer center's infusion room, where you will receive many of your treatments. They administer therapies, monitor your safety, and are a valuable source of information. Let them know how you feel during and after treatments—they may also offer tips to help manage side effects.

At RMCC, you'll be supported by a highly experienced team of professionals who understand leukemia and are focused on your care.

Understanding Leukemia

What Type of Leukemia Do I Have?

Generally, leukemias are categorized by which type of blood cell they arise from and how quickly they progress. Fast-growing leukemias are called acute, while slower-growing leukemias are called chronic. Leukemia that affects lymphoid cells is called lymphoid, lymphocytic, or lymphoblastic leukemia. Leukemia that affects myeloid cells is called myeloid, myelogenous, or myeloblastic leukemia. 

Your hematologic oncologist will help you learn more about your specific type, which is an important step toward understanding your treatment.

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What About Clinical Trials for Leukemia?

As a member of US Oncology Research, RMCC has access to the latest clinical trials throughout Colorado. These studies help researchers develop new treatment options for the disease. When you receive cancer care through RMCC, you may be eligible for newly developed therapies or investigational drugs not yet widely available .

Talk with your blood cancer specialist to learn whether one of our available leukemia trials may be right for you.

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The comprehensive approach to care offered by our leukemia team combines the most advanced treatments with education, compassionate support services, and complementary therapies.
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Your First Hematologic Oncology Appointment

If your hematologist diagnosed you with leukemia, you will likely schedule another appointment soon to review your recommended treatment plan. This plan is based on the type of leukemia you have and whether it has spread to other areas of the body. Your doctor may also recommend tests before your appointment to help tailor the plan to your specific needs.

As you prepare for this visit, consider asking a relative or friend to come with you as a support partner. They can provide emotional support, listen carefully, and help take notes on the information you receive.

For more information about your first visit with an RMCC hematologic oncologist, visit our New Patients webpage. 

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Keep a Notebook 

After a leukemia diagnosis, you will receive a lot of information from your cancer care team. It can be difficult to remember everything, especially when you're focused on taking care of yourself.

To stay organized, consider using a notebook or digital device to keep important information in one place. Record how you’re feeling and note any medicines or supplements you’re taking. You may also want to jot down questions, thoughts, or observations related to appointments and procedures. Adding dates to your notes can help keep everything organized. 

Keeping this information well documented may reduce stress during treatment and make it easier to communicate with your doctors. 

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Ask Questions to Help You Make Decisions: 

  • What type of leukemia do I have? Is it fast growing or slow growing?
  • What are the treatment options for my specific type of leukemia?
  • Do I need to start treatment right away?
  • How soon do I have to make a decision regarding treatment?
  • How long will treatment last?
  • What are the possible side effects of this treatment? 
  • How will the treatment affect my day to day activities? What adjustments, if any, should I make? 
  • Is a leukemia clinical trial an option for me?  
  • What support services are available to me and my family?
  • Who should I call with questions or problems?

Should I Get a Second Opinion?

Feeling confident about your leukemia diagnosis is extremely important. For this reason, many people choose to get a second opinion before beginning treatment.

At RMCC, our physicians regularly provide second opinions on leukemia diagnosis and treatment options. Many insurance companies cover second opinions, but it's still a good idea to contact your insurance provider to verify coverage. 

Request a second opinion appointment.

You Are Not Alone

During this challenging time, it's important to remember that you are not alone. The hematologic oncologists and the entire leukemia team at RMCC are here to support you every step of the way.

We provide care at several convenient locations across Colorado and are committed to offering education and guidance throughout your leukemia journey. Our team focuses on compassionate care, community resources and support, and access to the most promising treatments available.