I am writing this early on Sunday morning as I am preparing to leave Columbia, Missouri, following the University of Georgia's win over Mizzou late last night.  (Apologies to all Mizzou fans.)

Georgia struggled through much of the game but came alive in the fourth quarter. For this, I am thankful because during my tenure at UGA, we've had some journeys home where the mood was not joyful.

Of course, football is nowhere near as serious as the battle against multiple myeloma or any cancer, but it is a game with many applications to life, not the least of which is to remain strong and persevere, even when you're down.

Lest you think I am off topic, my sister Deana does factor into the story.

Our beloved Texas Aggies had their first home game yesterday against the University of Florida.  I was unable to watch the game, due to my work obligations – this happens quite often.

Early in the afternoon, Deana texted me the most adorable picture of her sons Andrew and Gregory, all decked out in their Aggie maroon and white, smiling broadly and giving the "Gig 'em" sign. She sent it with the caption, "My Aggies."  It warmed my heart, and I showed it to many people at my tailgate event.

Deana continued to text me score updates throughout the afternoon, which she has done for me for years.  It's a little thing that's really a big thing because she is the only other person in our family who knows what it means to be an Aggie.  The afternoon may find me working on behalf of UGA, which I love, but part of my head and heart are in the Texas A&M game.

For some time yesterday, our Ags were doing well and went into halftime with the lead. Unfortunately, when the game ended, Florida had emerged victorious by 3 points.

Aggies never lose – we are either outscored, or we run out of time. Yesterday, we ran out of time.  But Aggies never quit, and even though we did not “Beat The H*ll Outta” Florida yesterday, there will be victories to come.

But Deana is still Beating The H*ll Outta multiple myeloma, which is the win I care about over all others.  No victory on the gridiron could compare to the joy of having my sister here to send those photos and texts on game day.

Thanks to the great work of researchers, Kyprolis (carfilzomib) was recently approved for the treatment of myeloma.  From what I have read thus far, it will provide another option for our fellow multiple myeloma warriors who have exhausted other treatments.

That's terrific news, and it inspires me each time I go out for a training run in my preparations for next month's Marine Corps Marathon.  It is my hope that the money my team members and I raise will bring about the cure before anyone else "runs out of time."

September is Multiple Myeloma Awareness month.  I challenge you to consider what you can do to contribute to the ultimate victory.