New campaigns launch for Blood Cancer Awareness Month
Social media efforts, walk/runs, Light the Night are part of September activities
This September, during Blood Cancer Awareness Month, major organizations are launching new campaigns to increase awareness and support for the three main types of blood cancer: leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma.
Myeloma occurs when bone marrow plasma cells, the immune cells responsible for producing antibodies, grow uncontrollably. Leukemia is the most common blood cancer in the U.S. and the most common cancer in children. It also begins in the bone marrow when immature blood cells grow uncontrollably. Lymphoma affects the lymphatic system and occurs when white blood cells in the lymph nodes multiply to form tumors in the lymphatic system.
#KnowMyeloma continues
The Blood Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) website for the International Myeloma Foundation (IMF) is reviving its #knowmyeloma campaign with videos. “Know myeloma: it’s time the world knows blood cancer by name,” the site reads. “In 2025, social media algorithms are laser-focused, and short, yet personal videos have the power to stop the scroll and speak to the heart.”
Videos to share can be found on the BCAM website and the IMF YouTube channel.
Advocates can also create campaign graphics or use those in the IMF’s social media toolkit. Awareness month gear, including shirts, hats, mugs, wristbands, tote bags, and other items, is also available for purchase.
The foundation encourages participants to share their stories, pictures, and videos on X/Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram using the tag #knowmyeloma.
The IMF is also sponsoring two Q&A sessions on Facebook Live. The first is with IMF Chief Medical Officer Dr. Joseph Mikhael on Sept. 8, while the second one happens Sept. 30 with IMF Nurse Leadership board member Beth Faiman, PhD. Both are scheduled for 7 p.m. EST.
Meanwhile, Miracles for Myeloma in-person/virtual walk/run events are set for Sept. 13 in Clark, New Jersey and on Sept. 20 in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. Ticket prices vary based on age and location. Other IMF community events are also scheduled.
Blood Cancer United announces name change
Blood Cancer United, formerly the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, kicked off awareness month with an announcement about changing its name and a community support campaign.
“This campaign, along with our new brand, is the result of three years of listening deeply to patients, families, volunteers, supporters, and partners. It’s a reaffirmation that we are here for every blood cancer patient, honoring every personal story behind the diagnosis,” said Lynn Godfrey, SVP, chief experience officer at Blood Cancer United.
Community members are encouraged to visit BCU’s website and share their stories, and to volunteer, donate, and follow the organization on social media throughout the month.
BCU’s signature Light the Night events across the nation will bring communities together to celebrate, honor, and remember those affected by blood cancers.
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada will host Connect & Learn programs on Sept. 20 in Toronto and Sept. 27 in Halifax. Both start at 10 a.m., and will provide an opportunity for advocates to meet members of the blood cancer community and learn from healthcare professionals and local experts. Space is limited and registrations close Sept. 13, and Sept. 19, respectively.
The Leukemia Research Foundation is the largest nonprofit organization in the U.S. focused on funding innovative leukemia research and supporting patients and families.
LRF asks advocates to get involved and help them “achieve a world without leukemia by joining our community of donors, volunteers, and supporters,” its website states. On Sept. 16, the organization will host “Leukemia 101,” a webinar where a medical expert from University of Chicago Medicine will discuss topics that range from diagnosis to treatment approaches.
The foundation is also hosting its 2025 Affiliate Board Signature Event “Cocktails for a Cure” 6 p.m., Sept. 20 at the Commonwealth Tavern, 2000 W. Roscoe St., Chicago. Ticket prices are $75, and day-of tickets will be available for $85.
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