Hi Kim: I was diagnosed at 52 years old also, and I am now 76. I am off my treatment now for almost 6 years. CML is very treatable. When I used to have BMB, I was given Lidocaine injection, and then sedation My doctor used to put Demerol into my IV, and I had no pain at all. I could feel the pressure of him going into get the sample, but it was not painful. After the BMB you feel sore for awhile. Sometimes a few weeks. I shared my diagnosis with all my family, and got tremendous support from everybody. My husband was with me through everything. IT is so shocking. You just have to trust God. Nothing is impossible with God. He has gotten me through this and much more through the years. You will be fine. My first biopsy was also in Dec right before the holidays, and I did not know what to expect. It all worked out well. Enjoy your holidays and your family, as you enjoy a long life.