Hello NKJ and thanks for your post,

I can't say about prognosis but a lot of people live a long time with CLL (Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia). The disease is managed by a combination of drugs and monitoring. A lot will depend on your sister's symptoms and the results of her blood tests as to when she needs treatment.

You may be interested in reading the information about CLL on our website.

Many new treatments have now been developed for this condition and the drugs that are used are very personalised. Chemotherapy is no longer the first treatment of choice but rather targeted treatments. You can read about how decisions are reached. 

I can understand how hard this must be trying to live with a life long condition but hopefully as time goes on your sister will find ways of managing her symptoms.

There will be support in the hospital and your sister will be regularly monitored. You can read about the supportive treatment that she will get from the hospital. Your sister will be encouraged to have vaccinations such as flu and she should report any sign of an infection. Having a thermometer at home is a good idea.

Your sister may have the support of a haematology nurse who may be her first point of contact. 

You have posted in 'ask the nurses' but if you or your sister post on another thread or start your own you may get responses from other relatives or patients with this condition.

I hope that some of these links maybe helpful. You and your sister are very welcome to ring and speak to one of the helpline nurses. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

All the best,

Catherine