[HLeix]

High-risk multiple myeloma with anemia & back pain

by HLeix on Wed Jun 13, 2018 10:47 am

I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in February. I was anemic and in severe pain in my back. I had had back surgery in September because of back pain. Now I realize multiple myeloma was most likely the cause.

At a follow up appointment, I could hardly walk back to the room and all the way I cried. I insisted that they do an MRI on my thoracic spine. It came back with a spot on it. My doctor referred me to an oncologist. My tests came back at 90% myeloma in my bone marrow, and out of 11 DNA markers, I had 8.

I now have started my 6th session of treatment, then I will have a stem cell transplant. After my 4th session, my bone marrow was down to 5%. I've gotten through this because of my faith. I have a lot of friends and family praying for me. I'm concerned about the transplant and being ready.

[Mark Pouley]

Re: High-risk multiple myeloma with anemia & back pain

by Mark Pouley on Wed Jun 13, 2018 12:53 pm

HLeix,

Welcome to the forum, even though I'm sorry you had to join.

I certainly understand your anxiety with the new diagnosis and your fear of the upcoming transplant. While every patient's experience can be different, I suggest you read some of the transplant "journals" of the many patients here in the forum (I published mine in 2016; you can find mine and others listed at the end of this post). You might find it really useful to see how other patients have gone through the process. It is only "scary" if you don't know what to expect so you imagine the worst.

Good luck!