Julie's Story

My world turned upside down – I felt like Alice in Wonderland! 

When my primary care doctor called after annual bloodwork, she was alarmed by the erratic results. I had always been healthy yet had in recent weeks experienced fatigue but nothing major. Clearly, something was very wrong. So, after referral to a hematologist-oncologist plus a whirlwind of specialized tests – the diagnosis was incontrovertible: Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia (a rare form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma).   

Treatment started immediately, but the medication was incredibly expensive – even with insurance! That’s where HealthWell Foundation stepped in. You see, my oncology team had applied for a HealthWell grant on my behalf for assistance with the treatment/medication. 

And, true to the mission of HealthWell: “To reduce financial barriers to care for underinsured patients with chronic or life-altering diseases,” the grant was approved. Without HealthWell’s compassion, my future would have been lost. Yet they ‘invested’ in me – to save my life. I am beyond grateful! 

Indeed, I’m living a joyful life (at 69-years young). I’m active as a volunteer with a local animal welfare organization and enjoy spending quality time with my extraordinary husband and our extended family. 

Like Alice, I’ve learned quite a lot while navigating the challenges and uncertainties of life – my cancer journey prominently among them.