By Sherry Larson
“The first reaction was like how – why?” said Karl Boerger, Principal of North Adams High School, discussing his recent diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Boerger realizes his announcement will shock many people. He doesn’t look sick, and he didn’t know he was until he got results from blood tests at a health fair on May 2.
The Adams County Regional Medical Center held its annual Health Fair at the North Adams High School gym this year rather than the hospital because the gym is open and spacious. Boerger, who admits he wouldn’t normally get his blood checked, didn’t know that the change in venue and his decision to walk down the hall and have his blood drawn would significantly alter his life.
The Health Fair sent his blood sample to Boerger’s family doctor, Dr. Campbell, who contacted Karl and said, “Let’s get you in here for another one,” after discovering abnormalities and a high white blood cell count. On June 30, Boerger was diagnosed with CLL stage 0.
Boerger’s initial reactions were shock, fear, and concern for his family. Boerger describes his next steps as going down a rabbit hole of research. He said, “Some people get to ring the bell when they are cancer-free. Mine – there is no cure for it, so how do I help other people?” His mission is to raise awareness and encourage folks to get regular check-ups and blood work. Boerger is especially concerned about men who don’t talk about their health, and he wants to raise understanding by sharing his experience.
Doctors at OHC Eastgate explained that this type of leukemia is treated by triaging symptoms. As to what causes the disease, there can be environmental factors like exposure to Agent Orange and Roundup.
Boerger immediately changed his diet and exercise as part of the treatment plan, and he said, “My wife made me do that.” He’s already lost 15 pounds as he tries to stay disciplined with an anti-inflammatory diet and drink lots of water. He’s also started taking vitamins.
At the beginning of September, Boerger has an appointment with Dr. Jennifer Woyach, a chronic lymphocytic leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma specialist, at the James Cancer Center in Columbus, Ohio, and hopes to learn much more about CLL. He is grateful for the support of his wife, Kelly, their children, and the community that surrounds him. He’s keeping a journal about the journey for both the good and the bad days. And his mindset is “listening to his body.”
“It’s always on your mind, even when you wake up at night. It’s like, so how do I make the next day better? How do I not get sick?” Boerger shared. “I can’t predict the future.” Boerger reiterates the importance of hope and wanting his story to have an impact and encouraging others to do regular health screenings. He emphasizes staying positive and said, “I’m focused on one day at a time.”