When Kristen Hummel was in her early 40s, she thought constantly feeling hot was simply a sign of perimenopause. Instead, bloodwork led to a life-changing diagnosis of a rare blood cancer called a myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN).
Years later, her condition progressed to myelofibrosis, a rare chronic blood cancer that causes scarring of the bone marrow. While there is no cure, Kristen has met her diagnosis with resilience — staying active, informed, and committed to advocating for others living with rare blood cancers.
Today, Kristen volunteers with the Canadian MPN Network, helping improve awareness, access to care, and support for the rare disease community.
Rare disease journeys are often lifelong, but no one should have to navigate them alone.