@loula Actually my precursor MGUS started in 2002, changed to “smoldering myeloma” in 2004. Research into where the most was happening in 2002 took me to Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. I have been with them ever since and my doctor there works with my local oncologist. I started treatment here in PA in June 2016 and in November 1, 2019 I was in a totally unexplained remission. Nothing short of a miracle. Over the years I have dealt with anemia and spine damage in addition to the arthritis that would have happened anyway. But I have been living with myeloma, not dying of myeloma. The more time that goes on, the more advances are happening. Myeloma usually does not stay in remission if you are fortunate enough to achieve that, but there are plenty of new treatments out there if/when it comes back needing treatment. The myeloma itself never goes away. You will keep meeting new thinking, new information, and new options as you are now. Maybe you can consider those things part of the journey rather than more mountains to climb, things that are expected along the way. Because the life that you can choose does not have to be focused on your cancer. Myeloma does not define me.
Today I am sitting here with my brand new little 6 lbs. 2 oz. one week old great granddaughter while her parents are unpacking in their new home. Yes, life is worth pursuing, life is worth enjoying. Not always easy, but always possible.
Make your weekend good! Peace, Nancy