Leukaemia Care in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Leukaemia is a type of blood cancer that starts in the bone marrow – the soft, spongy tissue inside your bones where blood cells are made. It causes large numbers of abnormal white blood cells to be produced. These cells crowd the bone marrow and can interfere with the production of normal red blood cells, healthy white blood cells and platelets.

People living with leukaemia are more likely to get infections and may have trouble fighting them off. They may also experience anaemia (low red blood cells) and problems with bleeding or bruising.

In Grand Rapids and across Michigan, leukaemia is a serious but increasingly treatable condition. Many people are cured or live with leukaemia for many years with modern treatments available at local cancer centers such as:

  • Spectrum Health Cancer Center (Corewell Health)
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
  • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
  • Mercy Health and affiliated oncology practices

Leukaemia in Michigan and Grand Rapids

Each year, more than a thousand Michigan residents are diagnosed with leukaemia. In the Grand Rapids metro area (population 200,000+), several dozen new cases are seen annually across local hospitals and clinics.

Because Grand Rapids experiences long, cold winters and frequent respiratory infections, it’s especially important for people with leukaemia—whose immune systems are weaker—to receive prompt care and close monitoring, particularly during flu and RSV season.

Local public health resources include:

  • Kent County Health Department – information on vaccinations, infectious disease control, and community health programs
  • Grand Rapids Public Health resources – local clinics and screening programs

Blood Cells and Leukaemia: How It Affects Your Body

Blood is made up of:

  • Red blood cells – carry oxygen around the body
  • White blood cells – fight infection and disease
  • Platelets – help blood to clot and stop bleeding
  • Plasma – the clear fluid that carries cells and nutrients

All of these cells are made in the bone marrow.

When you are healthy, your body keeps the numbers of red cells, white cells and platelets in balance. In leukaemia, the bone marrow produces large numbers of immature or abnormal white blood cells called blast cells. These:

  • Cannot do their normal job of fighting infection
  • Crowd out healthy blood-forming cells in the bone marrow
  • Reduce the number of normal red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets

This can lead to:

  • More frequent or severe infections
  • Anaemia (causing tiredness, shortness of breath, paleness)
  • Easy bruising or bleeding

Types of Leukaemia

Leukaemia is grouped by:

  1. How fast it develops

    • Acute leukaemia – develops quickly (over days or weeks) and requires urgent treatment
    • Chronic leukaemia – develops slowly (over months or years)

  2. Which blood cells are affected

    • Myeloid cells – cells that can develop into red cells, platelets and some types of white cells
    • Lymphoid cells – lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that helps protect against infection

The Four Main Types of Leukaemia

  1. Acute lymphocytic leukaemia (ALL)

    • Affects lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell)
    • Abnormal lymphocytes cannot fight infection properly
    • Large numbers of abnormal cells crowd out healthy red cells and platelets
    • Most common in children
    • Rare in adults

  2. Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)

    • Also affects lymphocytes
    • Develops slowly over years
    • Many people have no symptoms at first and are diagnosed during routine blood tests
    • Affects adults and does not occur in children

  3. Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML)

    • Affects myeloid cells, especially cells called granulocytes
    • Too many immature myeloid cells are produced and there are not enough mature cells to fight infection
    • These abnormal cells can build up in the bone marrow and blood and may block small blood vessels
    • Mainly affects adults, but can occur in children and adolescents

  4. Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML)

    • Involves too many mature myeloid cells, which do not function properly
    • Has two main phases:
      • A chronic phase, where abnormal cells multiply slowly
      • A blast or accelerated phase, which can resemble AML and is more aggressive
    • Can occur at any age, but is uncommon under age 20

Symptoms of Leukaemia

Symptoms can vary depending on the type and stage of leukaemia. In acute leukaemia, symptoms usually appear suddenly and may worsen quickly. In chronic leukaemia, symptoms tend to develop slowly over months or years.

Common symptoms include:

  • Weakness, fatigue, or feeling “washed out”
  • Frequent infections or fevers
  • Easy bruising or bleeding
  • Bleeding from the gums or nose
  • Anaemia (low red blood cells), causing:
    • Breathlessness
    • Tiredness
    • Pale skin
  • Bone or joint pain
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Swollen lymph glands (in the neck, armpits or groin)
  • Abdominal discomfort or fullness due to an enlarged spleen

Most people who have these symptoms do not have leukaemia. They are often caused by less serious problems, such as viral infections—especially common in West Michigan’s cold, flu-heavy winters. However, if symptoms persist for more than a couple of weeks, it’s important to see your doctor or visit a local clinic.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of most cases of leukaemia is unknown, but several factors may increase your risk:

  • Radiation exposure

    • High-dose radiation (for example, from certain industrial or nuclear exposures)
    • Everyday medical imaging such as x‑rays and CT scans uses much lower doses; current evidence does not link typical diagnostic imaging to leukaemia in most people

  • Chemical exposure

    • Long-term exposure to benzene (a chemical used in some industries)

  • Cigarette smoking

    • Increases the risk of some types of leukaemia

  • Genetic factors

    • Certain inherited conditions can increase risk
    • Some families have a higher-than-average rate of blood cancers

  • Age and gender

    • Some types of leukaemia are more common in older adults
    • Males have a slightly higher risk than females

Ongoing research at major cancer centers, including those in Michigan and nearby academic institutions, continues to explore why leukaemia develops and how to prevent it.

How Leukaemia Is Diagnosed in Grand Rapids

If your doctor suspects leukaemia, you may be referred to a hematologist/oncologist at a Grand Rapids cancer center. Common tests include:

1. Blood Tests

  • A complete blood count (CBC) and other blood tests check:
    • Numbers of red cells, white cells and platelets
    • Presence of abnormal or immature white blood cells

2. Bone Marrow Biopsy

  • A small sample of bone marrow is taken, usually from the hip bone, using a needle
  • The sample is examined under a microscope to:
    • Confirm whether leukaemia is present
    • Determine the type of leukaemia
    • Help guide treatment decisions

3. Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap)

  • A small amount of fluid is removed from around the spinal cord using a needle in the lower back
  • The fluid is checked under a microscope to see if leukaemia cells have spread to the brain or spinal cord

You may also have:

  • CT, PET or MRI scans to see if leukaemia has affected other parts of the body
  • Additional blood and genetic tests to help tailor treatment

Test results can take several days. It is normal to feel anxious while you wait. Talking with family, friends, a counselor, or a local support service can help during this time.

Treatment of Leukaemia in Grand Rapids, MI

Treatment depends on:

  • The type of leukaemia
  • How advanced it is
  • Your age and overall health

Most children and many adults with acute leukaemia can expect to be cured. For many people with chronic leukaemia, the disease can be successfully controlled for long periods.

In Grand Rapids, treatment is usually provided at:

  • Spectrum Health / Corewell Health cancer centers
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids oncology clinics
  • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
  • Mercy Health and affiliated specialists

Main Treatment Options

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses medicines to destroy or slow the growth of fast-growing cancer cells.

  • Usually given intravenously (IV) in a hospital or clinic
  • Sometimes given as tablets
  • Often delivered in cycles, with rest periods in between

For some people with acute leukaemia, chemotherapy may involve spending several weeks in hospital. Others may receive treatment partly as an outpatient, with regular visits for monitoring and infusions.

Stem Cell (Bone Marrow) Transplant

A stem cell transplant allows doctors to use much higher doses of chemotherapy (sometimes with total body irradiation, or TBI) to destroy leukaemia cells and the diseased bone marrow.

  • After high-dose treatment, you receive an infusion (drip) of:
    • Your own previously collected stem cells (autologous transplant), or
    • Stem cells from a donor (allogeneic transplant)

Transplants are usually done at specialized centers. Your Grand Rapids oncologist may coordinate care locally and, if needed, refer you to a regional transplant center in Michigan.

CAR T‑Cell Therapy

Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T‑cell therapy is an advanced form of immunotherapy and gene therapy, available at select centers:

  • Some of your own T‑cells (immune cells) are collected
  • Their genetic makeup is changed in a lab so they can better recognize and attack leukaemia cells
  • The modified cells are then returned to your body by infusion

This treatment is used for certain types of blood cancers that have not responded to standard therapy. Your Grand Rapids specialist can tell you if you might be eligible and where it is offered in Michigan.

Biological (Targeted) Therapy

Biological therapies (also called targeted therapies or immunotherapies) use substances that affect how cancer cells grow or how the immune system responds, such as:

  • Interferon
  • Growth factors
  • Other targeted drugs that block specific proteins on cancer cells

These treatments may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy, especially for some types of CML and other blood cancers.

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. In leukaemia, it may be used to:

  • Treat cancer that has spread to the brain or spinal cord
  • Shrink an enlarged spleen
  • Prepare the body for a stem cell transplant

Steroids

Steroids are often given alongside chemotherapy for some types of leukaemia. They can:

  • Help kill leukaemia cells
  • Reduce inflammation and allergic reactions
  • Improve the effectiveness of other treatments

All‑Trans‑Retinoic Acid (ATRA)

All‑trans‑retinoic acid is a form of vitamin A used to treat a specific type of AML called acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APML). It is usually taken as tablets with chemotherapy and has greatly improved outcomes for this subtype.

Supportive Care

Supportive care aims to prevent and treat symptoms and side effects, and may include:

  • Blood transfusions (for anaemia)
  • Platelet transfusions (to reduce bleeding risk)
  • Antibiotics or antiviral medicines (to treat or prevent infections)
  • Medications for pain, nausea and vomiting
  • Nutritional support, especially during intensive treatment

Supportive care is especially important during Michigan’s winter months, when infections are more common.

Complementary and Alternative Therapies

Some people use complementary therapies alongside their conventional cancer treatment to improve quality of life, such as:

  • Relaxation and breathing techniques
  • Massage (when safe)
  • Gentle exercise programs

However:

  • Some alternative therapies may not be helpful and can be harmful or interfere with treatment
  • Always discuss any supplements, herbal remedies or alternative therapies with your oncology team before starting them

Side Effects of Treatment

All cancer treatments have potential side effects. These vary depending on:

  • The drugs and doses used
  • The type and length of treatment
  • Your overall health

Common side effects may include:

  • Tiredness and weakness
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Hair loss
  • Increased risk of infections
  • Mouth sores
  • Changes in appetite or weight

Many side effects are temporary and improve after treatment finishes, but some may be long term. Your doctor, nurse or pharmacist will explain possible side effects before treatment begins and how they can be managed. Local cancer centers in Grand Rapids offer symptom management clinics and nurse navigators to help.

Research and Clinical Trials in Michigan

Early detection and improved treatments have significantly increased survival rates for people with leukaemia. Ongoing research—locally, nationally and internationally—continues to look for:

  • More effective and less toxic treatments
  • Better ways to combine existing therapies
  • New targeted drugs and immunotherapies

Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments or new combinations of treatments. In Grand Rapids and across Michigan, clinical trials may be available through:

  • Spectrum Health / Corewell Health research programs
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
  • University of Michigan and other regional academic centers

Always discuss clinical trial options with your doctor. A trial may give you access to promising new therapies that are not yet widely available.

Emotional Wellbeing, Sexuality and Relationships

A diagnosis of leukaemia can affect many parts of your life, including:

  • How you feel about your body
  • Your self‑image and confidence
  • Your relationships with your partner, family and friends
  • Your sexual feelings and intimacy

These changes can be very upsetting. Your medical team should talk with you about these issues before and during treatment, but you can always ask for more support, including:

  • Referral to a counselor, psychologist or social worker
  • Support groups for people with blood cancers, in person or online
  • Educational materials about sexuality and cancer

Being open with your partner about how you feel—physically and emotionally—can help you both adjust and find new ways to stay connected.

Caring for Someone with Leukaemia in Grand Rapids

Caring for a loved one with leukaemia can be demanding and emotional. Carers and family members may experience:

  • Stress and fatigue
  • Worry about the future
  • Financial pressure from time off work or travel for treatment

Support is available in West Michigan to help caregivers cope and find practical assistance.

Local and regional resources include:

  • Your GP (primary care doctor) – first point of contact for medical and mental health concerns
  • Spectrum Health / Corewell Health, Trinity Health, Metro Health, Mercy Health – social workers, nurse navigators and support services
  • Kent County Health Department – community health resources, vaccination clinics, and public health information
  • Local and national cancer organizations – education, support groups, financial and transport assistance

Ask your oncology team about caregiver resources and support programs in Grand Rapids and across Michigan.

When a Cure Isn’t Possible (Palliative Care)

If leukaemia is diagnosed at a later stage or does not respond to treatment, a cure may not be possible. In this situation, care focuses on:

  • Improving quality of life
  • Relieving symptoms such as pain, breathlessness, nausea and fatigue
  • Supporting emotional, spiritual and practical needs

This is called palliative care. It can be provided:

  • At home, with support from home care and hospice services
  • In hospital
  • In a hospice or specialized palliative care unit

In Grand Rapids, palliative and hospice care services are available through:

  • Spectrum Health / Corewell Health
  • Trinity Health at Home and other hospice providers
  • Community-based palliative care programs

Palliative care is not just for the very end of life; it can be introduced early, alongside active treatment, to help manage symptoms and support you and your family.

Where to Get Help in Grand Rapids, MI

If you or someone you love has symptoms of leukaemia, or has been diagnosed and needs support, consider:

  • Your GP or family doctor – for initial assessment, referrals and ongoing care

  • Local cancer centers and hematology clinics:

    • Spectrum Health / Corewell Health Cancer Center
    • Trinity Health Grand Rapids oncology services
    • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
    • Mercy Health oncology clinics

  • Public health and community resources:

    • Kent County Health Department
    • Grand Rapids community health clinics and support groups

  • National organizations (U.S.-based):

    • Leukaemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS)
    • American Cancer Society
    • Blood cancer foundations and online support communities

These organizations can help you find:

  • Reliable information about leukaemia and its treatment
  • Financial and practical support programs
  • Local and online support groups
  • Transportation and lodging support if you need to travel for specialized care

Key Points About Leukaemia in Grand Rapids

  • Leukaemia is a cancer of the blood-forming cells in the bone marrow
  • It causes large numbers of abnormal white blood cells to be produced, crowding out normal blood cells
  • There are four main types: ALL, CLL, AML and CML
  • The exact cause is unknown, but risk factors include radiation, certain chemicals, smoking, genetic conditions, age and gender
  • Chemotherapy is a main treatment; others include stem cell transplant, CAR T‑cell therapy, biological therapies, radiotherapy, steroids and supportive care
  • Many people with leukaemia in Michigan can be cured or live with the disease for many years
  • Grand Rapids offers access to advanced cancer care, clinical trials and strong community support

If you have ongoing symptoms such as fatigue, frequent infections, easy bruising or unexplained weight loss, contact your Grand Rapids healthcare provider or local clinic for assessment. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in outcomes.