Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) Support Group

I was told no more than an hour and a half and that's with LOADS of sunscreen. I just can't fathom the whole NO sun thing. It's still a hard thing to get used to.

Just accidently googled and found this group. So glad to read your experiences. I have been on gleevic for cml since february. I was feeling so much better and then had a huge setback this week after a weekend of outside fourth of july festivities. i was so glad to hear about your experiences with the sun. I was trying to ignore the exhaustion and hoping it would just go away for a week. I dragged myself to work and then even 12 hours in bed till the next day wasn't enough. I am going to the oncologist tomorrow. How do we handle the sun? Can we wear a hat in a convertible and be protected? Is sitting the the shade enough?

I think the area that you live in and the climate also plays a part in your sun exposure. That's just my opinion though.. I live in Tucson, AZ and it was 111 degrees this past weekend. Scorcher!! Wear loads of sunscreen! I cover every inch of me that is going to be hit by the sun. Hats are a plus. Go with whatever your oncologist tells you though. I know that when I was in San Diego two weeks ago, I was doing so much better than I do here in AZ. There is cooler weather, ocean breezes, and God love that June gloom! Take it easy, and I'm glad you found this site. It has been a life saver for me!! I have vented, cried, asked for help, and everyone is so encouraging. Good luck with your treatments!

My doctor told me Gleevec does not cause photosensitivity. But I always question that. It has seemed to me that I burn easier than I did before. I found that getting a tan at the tanning bed then applying sun screen to my face and scalp helped me. I just played with it. I went on vacation and was in the sun everyday for a week and did not burn. It worked for me. I am really white if I don't lay out but when I do I can get a really good tan usually.