'Helpful Harry' the hedgehog answers some of your quest

If you have any questions about Leukaemia or The Tracy Sollis Leukaemia Trust, 'Helpful Harry' will answer them here.
Send your question to the E-mail address or the address on the Contacts page.

Question. What is leukaemia?

Harry says: Leukaemia is often referred to as ‘cancer of the blood’. It occurs when the bone marrow (the factory in our body that produces healthy blood cells), develops a fault causing it to produce an excessive amount of immature white cells that are unable to work properly. These faulty cells are released from the marrow into our blood stream.

Question. Is it infectious?

Harry says: No. We do not fully understand the causes of leukaemia but we do know that it is not infectious and therefore cannot be caught like a common cold or by being in close contact with someone who is affected.

Question. What are the symptoms?

Harry says: Numerous.
Excessive bruising
Bleeding gums
Pains in the bones or joints
Recurring infections
Anaemia
Swollen abdomen – due to the enlargement of the liver or spleen
Extreme fatigue

Question. Does leukaemia cause loss of hair?

Harry says: No! The disease itself does not make hair fall out. Some drugs and treatment administered cause this to happen. However, hair will quickly grow back again, often stronger and healthier than before.

Question. How is leukaemia diagnosed?

Harry says: A simple blood test will show any abnormalities in the blood. This test may, if necessary, be followed by a bone marrow examination to confirm diagnosis.

Question. Is it treatable?

Harry says: Yes. Research has moved forward in leaps and bounds since the 1960s. There are many different strains of the disease. Some are easier to treat than others.

Question. Is it preventable?

Harry says: We do not know yet, only research can tell. For that reason The Tracy Sollis Leukaemia Trust raises money to support basic research.

'Helpful Harry' hedgehog says:

Early diagnosis will help to provide a successful cure.