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I don’t feel like I am the same person anymore. How do you cope with that and being in a relationship? Something everything feels like static.

3 days ago
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Reactions
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Being honest about your limitations helps. Cancer and it's treatments change things. You're not the same as you were. Being understanding with yourself and others, cutting everyone some slack, is essential.

3 days ago
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Sending love prayers?
Talk don’t shut down.
You’re husband is going through something he has no idea how to fix.
Fixing problems is what we try to do.
He’s terrified inside.
He doesn’t know if what he’s thinking or what he wants to say is okay.
Love is so much stronger than leukemia.
Conversation is stronger than silence.
Remember my strategy?
One day at a time.
We can’t do anything about tomorrow.
But today
We can be strong.
Today we can talk.
Trust love.

I’m the last person to give love advice.

3 days ago
MyLeukemiaTeam

That "static" feeling makes complete sense. Leukemia changes things — your body, your emotions, your energy — and it's only natural that intimacy feels different too. You are not alone in feeling this way.

A MyLeukemiaTeam member shared: *"It is hard on a marriage. Goals change and being really patient is important."* That Show Full Answer

That "static" feeling makes complete sense. Leukemia changes things — your body, your emotions, your energy — and it's only natural that intimacy feels different too. You are not alone in feeling this way.

A MyLeukemiaTeam member shared: *"It is hard on a marriage. Goals change and being really patient is important."* That patience extends to yourself, too. Here are some ways others have found helpful for navigating intimacy with leukemia:

- Talk openly with your partner about how you're feeling — your desires, fears, and what intimacy looks like for you right now
- Speak with your doctor about physical symptoms affecting intimacy, like fatigue, pain, or hormonal changes — there are medications and treatments that can help
- Consider a sex therapist who has experience with people managing serious illness
- Explore mental health support such as cognitive behavioral therapy or mindfulness-based approaches, especially if anxiety or depression are adding to the static
- Practice self-compassion — treat yourself the way you'd treat a close friend going through this It's also worth remembering that intimacy doesn't have to mean sex. Simple physical closeness — touch, presence, connection — still matters and can be a gentle way to stay bonded while navigating the harder days.

You're still you. Leukemia is part of your story right now, but it doesn't get to write the whole thing.

3 days ago
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Of course you are the same person. Would you ditch a relationship if they broke a leg or wrist? probably not so why have problems with a Blood Cancer. One cannot catch the condition. One will continue to look the same and personally I like the look of myself so I don’t have a problem. Its a nuisance having a mobility problem and being in discomfort (pain) but I audibly groan and make humour from it. Indeed the UK Childs Programme: Night Garden has Makka Pakka and I am now he. Well not quite as chubby.

3 days ago
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Thank you so much.

3 days ago

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Kitchener, ON

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