From Diagnosis to Remission: David’s Story with CML

When David Wolovitz received a diagnosis of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) in 2000, the outlook was uncertain. At the time, survival rates were far lower than they are today, and treatment options were limited. 

An electrical engineer who had spent his career traveling the world for business, David’s life changed almost overnight. Intensive treatment took a significant toll on his health and quality of life. Within six months of his diagnosis, he had lost his job, his strength, and nearly 40 pounds. Simple tasks like climbing a flight of stairs became overwhelming, and the disease continued to progress despite treatment. 

Everything changed about a year and a half later when a new treatment option became available. Within six months, his cancer was under control, and he achieved remission. 

“Remission! Remission! Remission!” David said when reflecting on one of the most meaningful moments of his healthcare journey. 

The Financial Reality of Living with CML 

 While remission brought hope, another challenge quickly emerged: the cost of care. Although he had health insurance, the out-of-pocket expenses associated with treatment placed an enormous strain on his family’s finances. 

He first learned about Accessia Health through his wife, who worked in an oncology office helping patients connect with financial assistance resources. When his own healthcare costs became increasingly difficult to manage, Accessia Health became an important source of support. 

“Copays would have destroyed our finances,” David shared. 

For more than 15 years, Accessia Health has helped cover qualified healthcare expenses, including insurance premiums and medication-related costs. That assistance became even more critical after he was forced into retirement at just 52 years old, cutting short what should have been nearly two decades of his prime earning years. 

Retiring early meant more than stepping away from a career he enjoyed. It also meant losing years of income, retirement contributions, and financial stability while continuing to manage the ongoing costs of a chronic condition. His experience is a reminder that the financial impact of a diagnosis often extends well beyond medical bills, affecting every aspect of a family’s future. 

Having reliable financial assistance has allowed David to focus less on the stress of mounting healthcare costs and more on his health, his family, and the life he was working to rebuild. 

“Peace of mind and financial assistance go hand in hand,” he said. 

Taking Action Through Advocacy 

Beyond managing his own diagnosis, David found purpose in supporting others. After reaching remission, he became involved with what is now Blood Cancer United, helping establish the first CML support group, raising funds, and speaking at events to support blood cancer research and patients. 

He also works to educate others about the realities of living with cancer —including the long-term impact treatment can have on a person’s daily life — and encourages people to recognize that surviving a chronic condition often comes with challenges that may not be visible to others. 

A Message of Hope 

Today, David credits his family, friends, and healthcare team for helping him throughout his journey. His experience has also reshaped how he views life and service to others. 

“I now realize the blessings received by giving time, work and effort to causes like Accessia Health,” he said. 

For others facing a rare or chronic condition, David offers a simple but powerful reminder: 

“You are not alone in your struggle. Perspective is so important!” 

Learn More About CML Support 

Stories like David’s highlight that the impact of a chronic illness extends far beyond a diagnosis. Access to treatment, financial assistance, and a strong support system can make all the difference. 

If you or a loved one are facing your own navigation of CML treatment and support, we encourage you to learn more and apply for our CML Patient Program.