The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, a leading global nonprofit in funding blood cancer research, patient support and advocacy, is becoming Blood Cancer United, the group announced this week.
The change, which will be publicly announced Thursday, comes in advance of Blood Cancer Awareness Month (which is September) but it’s more of a recognition of the thorough work the group does.
For more than 75 years, LLS has been committed to reaching and supporting the entire blood cancer community — patients, families, caregivers, researchers, health care professionals, and partners — including those with blood cancers that aren’t leukemia and lymphoma.
With more than 100 types of blood cancers, such as myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes, and myeloproliferative neoplasms, LLS gathered extensive feedback from across its network and determined that now is the time for an evolution — to better reflect the work and unity at the center of its mission.
“We are at a pivotal moment — not only for our organization, but for our community — when funding for cancer research and access to treatment and care are at risk,” CEO Dr. E. Anders Kolb said. “Patients and researchers are telling us they’re worried about the impact these changes will have for anyone dealing with blood cancer, so there’s no better time for a resource that helps us reach more of the patients who need us.
“The word ‘united’ is transformational and inviting. I believe in the power of bringing together patients, families, scientists, volunteers, donors, business leaders, and health systems under a shared purpose. Blood Cancer United reflects who we are today and who we aspire to be — a unifying force advancing progress for every person impacted by blood cancer.”
And when more people can be reached, the organization can get closer to its bold goal: By 2040, we will enable patients with blood cancer to gain more than one million years of life.
Jana Boyer, the executive director of the New Jersey region of Blood Cancer United, said the group has a new name but the same mission.
“For more than 75 years, this organization has been focused on blood cancer, so people with blood cancer can focus on all the other things in their lives,” she said. “And while our mission is not changing, our new name makes it clear that we stand with all those impacted by blood cancer and we will continue to support research, advocacy and patients — here in New Jersey and beyond.”
While LLS is evolving its name, the organization will continue to directly help patients by funding promising research, advancing innovative treatments, offering free support, and advocating for policies that help people access quality health care.
“This is more than a name change; it’s a call to action that’s more important than ever to ensure that every patient is seen, supported, and given a chance at life,” Chief Medical Officer Dr. Gwen Nichols said.
“Blood Cancer United reflects the strength of an entire community, working together to ensure every person with blood cancer can live a longer, better life — people affected by all 100+ types of blood cancer, beyond leukemia and lymphoma. It sends a powerful message: We are here for you. No blood cancer patient has to go it alone.”
LLS will publicly unveil its new name on Aug. 28. The reveal marks a transformation years in the making — one that promises to reach and unite the blood cancer community and ignite momentum. A new brand identity and campaign rollout will coincide this fall.
