Article 28 September 2022 Blood Cancer Awareness month- Michael Rose, Business Development Manager shares his experience This month is world Blood Cancer Awareness month, which aims to raise awareness of all blood cancers. Blood cancers affect the production and function of blood cells. There are three main groups – leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma. Michael Rose, Business Development Manager, Landscapes, shares his experience of living and working with Chronic Myleloid Leukaemia: “It was during the Summer of 2020, when we were all in the midst of dealing with the Covid pandemic and my partner and I were expecting our first child when I began to experience symptoms. “I lost two and a half stone and had trouble staying awake past 9pm. I put it down to stress of everything that was going on at the time and preparing for a new baby. But then, on a family holiday, I started to have blurred vision, so I booked myself in for an eye test. “I thought I’d come out with a pair of glasses, but instead, I was told there was a clot behind my eye and referred me for more tests. Less than 24 hours later I received a call from my doctor, and that’s when I found out I had chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML), a type of blood cancer. “I’m now two years on and take Oral Chemotherapy to keep my condition under control. While I suffer with extensive fatigue and a low immune system, Mitie has been so supportive and I’ve kept working in my sales role. I really just want to urge anyone, particularly men, not to ignore warning signs and get checked out if you do notice any changes to your body.” Michael with his family Main signs of leukaemia: Shortness of breath FatigueBruisingWeight lossNight sweatsFrequent infections How Mitie can support you through illness? Employee Assistance Programme Free confidential service available to all employees and any adults in the same household. 24hr helpline for emotional support and advice about money, work, legal rights, health, retirement, children, relationships etc. Also provides access to counselling, up to 4 sessions (employee only) Call 0800 111 6387 The web pages include lots of additional information, podcasts and videos. Visit www.my-eap.com Access code: Mitiewell Virtual GP Consultations by phone or video with a doctor through our virtual GP. Available free 24hours a day, for employees and members of their household. They provide advice, signposting and also prescriptions (private prescription rates) 0345 319 3107 Occupational Health We have an Occupational Health Service. You need to be referred by your manager and they can offer advice and support including counselling. They will also provide advice and guidance to the manager regarding how to support some-one in the workplace, or when they are off sick.
