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What does survivorship mean to you, and what advice would you give someone just starting their journey with AML?
Ralph Hills
March 16, 2026
For AML World Awareness Day 2026, Know AML spoke with Ralph Hills (https://know-aml.com/stories/ralph-s-story), a patient with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and Chair of the Know AML ambassador group, based in the US, and Anna Mamwell (https://know-aml.com/stories/anna-s-story), a patient with AML and Patient Ambassador for Know AML, based in the UK. We asked, What does survivorship mean to you, and what is your advice for people just starting their journey with AML?
Ralph reflects on the 12 years since his diagnosis. After joining a clinical trial for treatment and sharing his experiences through speeches and advocacy within the AML community, he now hopes to serve as an example of hope for others experiencing a diagnosis of AML. Ralph describes his appreciation for his life since being diagnosed, as well as for his support circle and care team. He summarizes what survivorship means to him in one word: “grateful.”
Anna recalls that after going into remission, she felt that her life had to have purpose, and she wanted to make a positive difference for others. She discusses some of the unexpected experiences in the years following her diagnosis, including a change in her career toward AML patient advocacy, dealing with feelings of survivor’s guilt, and the loss of long-term friendships after recognizing the need to prioritize positivity and emotional wellbeing. Anna emphasizes that these changes are common and that no one is alone in experiencing them. She highlights the value of peer support and open conversations when adjusting to life after diagnosis.
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