It has been some time since we’ve been in touch, and from the perspective of Team Beat The H*ll Outta Multiple Myeloma, that is a good thing.  There’s just not much to report as we settle further into the “new normal.”

While there is still much I am interested in sharing, it is time to bring this column to a conclusion.

I have greatly appreciated the opportunity to write a column for The Myeloma Beacon.  I also remain inspired by the many emails and comments I receive from readers, particularly those who find themselves at the beginning of a multiple myeloma journey and are helped by my sister Deana’s story.

I could not end this column without one more update on Deana.  As we approach the two year anniversary of Deana’s diagnosis, she remains in remission and on maintenance chemotherapy.  We are not due to discuss the chemotherapy issue with her doctor again until December, unless something changes, which, of course, we hope it does not.

Her schedule continues to be as hectic as ever (although our mother, little sister Darrie, and I are constantly urging her to take it easy).

At an appointment with Deana’s doctor a few months ago, Deana expressed the desire for a PET scan, as she is fearful of developing a secondary cancer.  Fortunately, the scan came back clean.   But, I completely understand how living with multiple myeloma can be mentally and emotionally stressful.

I have such admiration for the grace and courage displayed by my sister and the other multiple myeloma warriors I have met along the way.   It is always said that you don’t know how much strength you have until being strong is your only option.   I can only hope I would react as well under such circumstances.

In this final column, I also want to share a few of the many things we have learned along our myeloma journey so far.

It is difficult to put these lessons in a ranked order, but certainly a positive attitude would be at or near the top.  There is no substitute for optimism.

It has also been important to remain educated about myeloma research progress.  It helps us to understand more about the disease and the treatment options.  It is also encouraging to know about the good work being done to bring about better treatments, and ultimately, a cure.

Burdens truly are lighter when they are shared.  We have found great strength and comfort in support groups, those in person as well as those online.

Many people expressed a belief that we would grow closer as a result of Deana's diagnosis.  I have been known to respond that if we were any closer, we would be conjoined.   This is not an exaggeration.

My sisters and I were blessed beyond measure to have two loving parents who instilled in us the importance of family.  We used to sing a song about "The Five of Us."  Well, there are only four of us left, but our circle has grown with marriages and children and that has brought great joy.

Myeloma has tested us for sure, but we have remained as close as we have ever been.  The four of us have an unbreakable bond and a love for one another that defies description.

The final thing I want to share is that our work is far from over.  Although two new myeloma drugs have gained approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in recent months, we still do not have a cure for myeloma.

A cure is what we need.  Only then, will our work be done.

Until then, keep fighting, spreading awareness, and pushing for a cure.
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