I am a big Dr. Phil fan. I've been watching him since he started on Oprah's show. For any of you who are familiar with him, you've heard him say "Today is going to be a changing day in your life". February 19, 2014 was most definitely a changing day in my life. It was the day someone I love very much was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma. At the time, I didn't even know what that was! But, I knew if I wanted to be supportive I was going to have to educate myself.
The internet can be an overwhelming place! So much information....good, bad and everything in between. Lots of medical language I didn't begin to understand. I quickly learned there was no easy explanation for this thing. Everything I began to read seemed so conflicting. My head was spinning! I knew if I wanted to halfway understand Multiple Myeloma, I was going to have to take a deep breath and take this 1 baby step at a time.
I decided if I wanted information on this, what better thing to do than join an online support group. Interact with others that are in the same place as my boyfriend & me. I found Life With Multiple Myeloma. I made a profile and I joined. I was immediately welcomed by Dancermom, Rodney & Scott. Everyone seemed so nice and so willing to share their own experiences. I knew I had come to the right place.
My boyfriend began chemo the last week of February. He hit a few bumps in the road along the way....a kidney issue that landed him in the hospital, severe constipation, a fractured vertebra in his back, gout, acheyness & fatigue. But. he continued to go to work and keep his life as "normal" as possible. Tests, weekly bloodwork, Dr. appointments....but, his attitude remains positive. I am very proud of him.
He finished his last round of chemo in early June. He will be going for the pre-testing for stem cell collection next week. He is feeling good and doing all he can to strengthen himself. He has completely changed his diet and is making necessary lifestyle changes....learning to relax when he is tired, working from home every now & then....he's even gotten interested in fishing!
I am very thankful to have found this website and to be able to interact with those on this journey. My prayers go out to all of you. You have helped me more than words can express. Thank you all so much!
When I was recently asked to be a moderator here, I was quite surprised. It is a true honor & priviledge and I truly appreciate the opportunity. If I can help someone as much as you all have helped me, I will be a happy camper!
God bless you all,
Kim (JerseyGyrl)