Blood Cancer Awareness Month: A Vocational Rehabilitation Perspective on Visibility, Support, and Recovery

Blood Cancer Awareness Month: A Vocational Rehabilitation Perspective on Visibility, Support, and Recovery

Every September, Blood Cancer Awareness Month calls attention to one of the UK’s most devastating yet under-recognised health challenges. Blood cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death in the UK, affecting over 41,000 people annually. Despite its prevalence, public understanding remains low—many still struggle to identify symptoms or access timely support. For vocational rehabilitation (VR) professionals, this month presents a crucial opportunity to raise awareness, advocate for workplace flexibility, and support individuals navigating treatment and recovery.

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🩸 What Is Blood Cancer?

Blood cancer is not a single disease but a group of cancers affecting the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. The three main types include:

•          Leukaemia– cancer of the white blood cells, often leading to fatigue, infections, and bleeding.

•          Lymphoma– affects the lymphatic system; symptoms may include swollen lymph nodes, night sweats, and weight loss.

•          Myeloma– a cancer of plasma cells, typically causing bone pain and frequent infections.

These cancers can be difficult to detect early. In fact, one-third of patients are diagnosed in A&E settings—a stark indicator of how often symptoms are missed or misunderstood.

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📣 The #SayBloodCancer Campaign

Blood Cancer UK’s #SayBloodCancercampaign aims to change that. By encouraging open conversations and sharing real-life experiences, the campaign seeks to normalise the language around blood cancer and improve early detection. This year, the focus includes diversifying the stem cell donor register, particularly among Black, Asian, and minority ethnic communities, who face lower chances of finding a match.

VR professionals can support this mission by:

•          Displaying awareness posters in the workplace (available via Lymphoma Action).

•          Encouraging employees to participate in fundraising events like the DKMS Big Cheekender.

•          Sharing survivor stories to foster empathy and understanding.

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🔍 Recognising the Symptoms

Symptoms of blood cancer are often vague and easily mistaken for common illnesses. These may include:

•          Persistent fatigue

•          Unexplained weight loss

•          Night sweats

•          Bruising or bleeding

•          Swollen lymph nodes

•          Frequent infections

As seen in Catherine Caddell’s story, early symptoms like itchy skin, bruising, and fatigue were initially dismissed. Her experience highlights the importance of self-advocacy and timely medical consultation. VR professionals can help by integrating symptom awareness into workplace health initiatives and encouraging employees to seek medical advice when something feels off.

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💼 Supporting Employees Through Treatment

Blood cancer treatment can be intensive and prolonged, often involving chemotherapy, stem cell transplants, and immunotherapy. The physical and emotional toll is significant, making workplace support essential.

VR professionals can:

•          Facilitate phased returns to work, allowing individuals to rebuild stamina gradually.

•          Advocate for flexible working arrangements, such as remote work or adjusted hours.

•          Coordinate with HR to implement reasonable adjustments, including changes in responsibilities or physical workspace.

•          Connect employees with EAPs and mental health services, ensuring holistic support.

Digital tools, mentorship programmes, and peer support groups can also play a role in easing the transition back to work and maintaining wellbeing.

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🛡️ Creating a Culture of Awareness and Care

Beyond individual support, organisations must foster a culture where health concerns are met with empathy and action. This includes:

•          Promoting regular health checks and open dialogue.

•          Ensuring access to critical illness and income protection benefits.

•          Training managers to respond sensitively to health disclosures.

Blood Cancer Awareness Month is not just about statistics—it’s about stories, support, and systemic change. By engaging with campaigns like Blood Cancer UK’s #SayBloodCancer, and leveraging resources from Lymphoma Action and DKMS,VR professionals can help ensure that no one faces blood cancer alone.

Whether it’s a conversation, a poster, or a flexible work plan, every action counts. This September, let’s say “blood cancer” loudly, clearly, and compassionately—and make the workplace a place of healing and hope.

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