[Steve K]

Well I never thought I would be here

by Steve K on Thu Nov 10, 2016 11:35 am

My name is Steven, age 52, diagnosed with multiple myeloma last month. Stage 2 with lesion on rib and multiple area of lucencies noted throughout other areas. Hemoglobin in the 9+ range, which was dropping from 14 in the last two year.

I started treatment last month and have 2 infusions of Zometa tomorrow. I take a Cytoxan (cyclo­phos­phamide) pill every Wednesday and get a Velcade shot on Thursday. So far I'm tolerating the treatment really well. I was up all night last night, however. I even took a codeine and Ambien (zolpidem) arournd 11 p.m., but it didn't help. I am thinking I need to up the dose from one to two.

I actually feel a lot better now after only a few treatments. Rib pain was gone in two weeks.

I appreciate all of the postiive stories here, as it helps my expectations.

I am sure I will talk to more of you over time and I hope to have good news to share.

I am planning to have an autologous stem cell transplant in February. I may have two transplants.

Thanks,

Steve

[TerryH]

Re: Well I never thought I would be here

by TerryH on Thu Nov 10, 2016 4:38 pm

Welcome to the forum, Steven. I'm sorry you have to be here. However, as you've already seen, it's a very helpful and supportive community.

Have you been able to see yet how well your myeloma is responding to your treatment? What has happened with your M-spike and your free light chain levels?

The dexamethasone that you're probably getting with your treatment is what's doing a number on your sleep patterns. It's tough. There are all sorts of solutions people have for dealing with it. You may already have read the different forum threads on the subject.

In any case, good luck with your treatment. I hope you get a great response, and that the side effects stay manageable.

[Dean UK]

Re: Well I never thought I would be here

by Dean UK on Thu Nov 10, 2016 5:39 pm

Hi Steve,

Welcome to the Beacon.

I remember well the shock of being diagnosed and taking it all in. The information and support you get from the Beacon is such a great help. I was diagnosed back in April. I live in England and was worried to post at first, but so pleased I did, as I have learnt so much.

Pleased your treatment has gotten off to a good start..

All the best with your treatment plan.

Regards,
Dean