[AutumnSC]

CML & multiple myeloma

by AutumnSC on Tue Feb 12, 2013 1:16 am

Hello,

My husband survived prostate cancer two years ago, is currently in remission from CML (diagnosed in 2011), and today was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. I am hoping that someone out there has advice for us.

We are going to MD Anderson, but our local oncologist keeps saying it is too rare to put a plan in place just yet. Does anyone out there have experience with someone who has both CML & multiple myeloma? What treatments were used? Due to his age and history, is there any hope? I cannot imagine life without him. He is my love, my soulmate, my world.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[Deb1234]

Re: CML & multiple myeloma

by Deb1234 on Tue Feb 12, 2013 10:52 am

I do not have CML, but have multiple myeloma and have been treated at MD Anderson since April 2008. You will be in the best of care and it is never too late to get a plan in place. I just want you to know you will not regret going there and having them evaluate a plan for you.

Sending prayers your way.

[Dr. Ken Shain]

Re: CML & multiple myeloma

by Dr. Ken Shain on Tue Feb 12, 2013 11:27 am

MD Anderson is an excellent place to have your care managed. it is rare, but definitely not unprecidented, to have two bone marrow disorders at the same time. Your husbands CML is likely well controlled on a TKI.

I would recommend that you try and take one step at a time. At MD Anderson, you will have excellent support in defining what management strategies will need to be implemented for your husband. With excellent therapeutics and management strategies, we are doing a better job of controlling myeloma everyday. There are many reasons for hope, as you will learn.

We wish you the best of luck and please keep us updated.

[Sioux City]

Re: CML & multiple myeloma

by Sioux City on Tue Feb 12, 2013 6:27 pm

Autumn, your post really touched my heart as I share similar feelings for my dear Husband. I suppose we all do for our spouses, but your words struck a chord and I wanted to respond.

I cannot speak to the CML, but I can speak to the older myeloma patient. If it helps at all, I'll just share that my husband was diagnosed at 72 and is 7 years from diagnosis; his quality of life is good -- he is still working full-time running his business. He did qualify for a stem cell transplant; however, Revlimid had just been approved, so that is where we started. Revlimid and dexamethasone did a great job for four years. He is now on carfilzomib (Kyprolis) and Revlimid.

You have great doctors and much hope,-- the love and support of a spouse, family member, or friend simply cannot be measured. Stay strong for him (take of yourself too) and do NOT let age deter you.

Prayers from us with all the best wishes in the world.

[AutumnSC]

Re: CML & multiple myeloma

by AutumnSC on Sat Feb 16, 2013 5:04 pm

Thank you all for taking the time to reply to my post. It is very helpful to read advice, shared concerns, and personal stories. I will continue to pray for all those affected, for additional treatment options, and ultimately, for a cure. God bless you all.