[JDavisAIFD]

How can I best help and support my mother?

by JDavisAIFD on Sat Jul 09, 2016 1:23 pm

Hi All,

My Mother was diagnosed with light chain multiple myeloma in March this year and she is finishing up her fourth round of treatment with Revlimid, Velcade, and Zometa. Her levels have dramatically decreased with the treatment and we were hoping we were heading to remission.

She wanted to start physical therapy to help regain some strength back after being unable to work out for almost 10 months due to 9 broken ribs and back pain. In March she had a bone scan (along with many other tests) which showed "pinholes" in her legs and ribs. I had re­quested she repeat the bone scan because I wanted to double check that her bones were healed before she started working out. I am glad I did because we found out today she has new damage on her vertebrae.

She has been seeing a doctor that specializes in blood cancers (I do not know the technical term) and he is referring her to another doctor that is more knowledgeable about stem cell treatment and believes the more aggressive treatment is needed. Since my mom's case has been unique, I feel it is a great idea to see a myeloma specialist and I hope we can have a clearer path to follow.

I am a stay at home mom of a 2 1/2 year old, which has been great because I can help my mom and be at her appointments as a second ear. I try to stay positive with her and help her by prepping meals for the week.

My question for all of you, what has been the most appreciated / beneficial support you have received from family?

I have read through many posts and I can tell that you all are very supported for each other. It is nice to see such a positive community!

[kshornb]

Re: How can I best help and support my mother?

by kshornb on Sat Jul 09, 2016 2:28 pm

Hi J:

I was also diagnosed with light chain myeloma (lambda), and have extensive bone in­volve­ment, which includes, broken ribs, and 4 vertebrae with compression fractures. Before my stem cell transplant I attempted to go to physical therapy, as I was avid about going to the gym before my diagnosis. However, I never seemed to have enough time – I had gone back to work while I was finishing up my initial treatments – and energy. Unfortunately I have still not been able to return to the gym, but hope to be able to soon.

It sounds to me like you have been a wonderful support for your Mom. A multiple myeloma diag­nosis can be very overwhelming, and all the medical information confusing. Having some­one that loves and cares about you attending doctors appointments and treatments is a blessing.

This site is a wonderful resource for questions to ask your doctors and find out about potential treatments.

You seem to be doing a wonderful job for your Mom. She is lucky to have you there to support her.

I wish you both the very best.

Kathleen