March is Multiple Myeloma Awareness Month. I’m not in denial - I know having multiple myeloma is serious, but a hopeful mindset guides me forward. My cancer journey began with a visit to my general practitioner for stomach issues. The blood work revealed an abnormal number, leading to further investigation. After more tests, I was diagnosed with high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma. I started chemotherapy and tolerated it well. To avoid outdated online information, I advised my loved ones to focus on hope. During the stem cell transplant, I spent two weeks in the hospital, losing weight and hair. My husband, Mitch, and my family provided incredible support. After the transplant, I had five months off from treatment to recover. I now have regular blood work and continue taking one cancer pill. Choosing hope has helped me appreciate the small moments in life.
