CLL Horizons 2025 – Daily Recap: Day 1, Thursday, 11 September

The opening day of CLL Horizons 2025 in Krakow began with energy and anticipation. After a warm welcome lunch, participants gathered for the opening plenary where the CLL Advocates Network outlined the latest progress and upcoming initiatives. The message was clear: global collaboration is driving real change in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) advocacy, from new reports to practical tools that support patients and their families.

The Understand theme framed the afternoon sessions. A reimagined “CLL 101” session emphasized the importance of connecting scientific knowledge with advocacy and patient experiences. Rather than presenting science in isolation, discussions highlighted how diagnosis, treatment pathways, and advocacy strategies must come together to empower informed care across diverse healthcare settings.

Throughout the day, quality of life was a recurring focus. Participants explored how advocates can play a pivotal role in ensuring treatment side effects are not overlooked and that patients’ voices shape care decisions. The value of data in advocacy was also emphasized, showing how real-world experiences can inform policy, influence access to treatment, and ensure the patient perspective remains central.

Emotional well-being featured prominently, with sessions on psychological resilience, communication, and navigating the complex systems of healthcare access. Advocates were reminded that strengthening trust and addressing barriers—whether cultural, emotional, or systemic—are crucial to improving outcomes.

The day concluded with a vibrant poster session followed by dinner, offering participants an opportunity to connect, share experiences, and reflect on the day’s discussions. By evening, there was a clear sense that this gathering would not only inform but also inspire action.

We would like to thank the following for their event grant support: