Patients & Families
starting with the basics
Understanding rare blood cancers
Every rare blood cancer is different, but many affect how the body produces healthy blood cells, often leading to symptoms that impact daily life. Understanding the basics can help patients and families feel more informed when navigating diagnosis, treatment decisions, and ongoing care.
Lower-risk Myelodysplastic Syndromes (LR-MDS)
LR-MDS is a rare blood cancer that can affect far more than blood counts. As one form of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), it often causes fatigue, and transfusion dependence that can disrupt everyday life.
Myelofibrosis (MF)
MF is a blood cancer that changes how the bone marrow works. As scar tissue builds up, healthy blood cell production becomes more difficult, leading to symptoms such as fatigue and an enlarged spleen.
patient perspectives
Voices from the community
Beyond every diagnosis is a person, a family, and a story. Hear from patients and care partners as they share their experiences living with a rare blood cancer, the challenges they’ve faced, and the moments that have helped them move forward.
Find support and resources
Explore trusted advocacy organizations, educational resources, and support resources that can help patients and care partners find reliable information, community, and guidance throughout the care journey.
Our advocacy partners
Clinical trials
Clinical research plays an important role in advancing the understanding and treatment of blood cancers. Learn more about Geron’s ongoing clinical trials and our commitment to continuing research in hematology.