living with myeloma

A multiple myeloma diagnosis can change the lives of patients and the people who care about them. These changes can be hard to handle. It is important for patients and their loved ones to receive support, since it is quite common to have many different and sometimes confusing emotions.

The information in this section is for patients who have been diagnosed with myeloma, their families and caregivers. It covers issues you may have to manage when living with myeloma. Learning more about what to expect will help you cope with the diagnosis of myeloma.

This section sets out the emotional issues that a diagnosis of myeloma may bring. It deals with the things you can do to help yourself and some of the practical advice you may need.

Aims of the information in this section:

• To help you understand more about myeloma and its impact on your life; 
• To help you manage the issues that you may face; 
• To help you and your family cope with the effects of myeloma.

At times, multiple myeloma patients and their loved ones may feel frightened, angry, or depressed. These are normal reactions when people face a serious health problem. Most people handle their problems better if they can share their thoughts and feelings with those close to them. Sharing can help everyone feel more at ease and can open the way for people to show one another their concern and offer their support.

I would like to start by sharing a story of my friend that was diagnosed seven years ago.  I cannot give you all the details of his treatment, although I do know he has been involved in clinical trials and did undergo a stem-cell transplant 5 years ago.  However, what I can tell you is that he has been at the forefront of knowing and sharing current information about multiple myeloma.  He has spent endless hours dedicating himself to Myeloma Canada: organizing conferences for patients, caregivers and medical professionals; writing, editing and publishing the 1^st Canadian Patient Handbook; leading support groups and leader workshops; providing telephone support to others; and too many other things to mention.

I guess I’m sharing this story because I want patients, family and friends to know that there have been many advances in the treatment of myeloma that allow those diagnosed to live a full and productive life.  There are good days and there are bad days however there is no limit to the good work that he has done and continues to do for the Canadian myeloma community.

Elisabeth, friend