Category Archives: Myeloma

Famous Myelomans

celebrities, Journal, Myeloma

CURIOSITY LED ME to do a little research about well-known people who have faced Multiple Myeloma. I learned that we Myelomans are in some pretty fantastic company:

(Note: This post has been updated)

Tom Brokaw — One of the most respected journalists of our era, Brokaw announced his MM diagnosis in Feb. 2014 at the age of 74. He has said he is in treatment and expects to “be OK,” and he continues to make television and public appearances from time to time.

Geraldine Ferraro — A groundbreaking American politician, Ferraro served three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives and was the first female candidate for vice president, running on the  Democratic ticket alongside Walter Mondale in 1984. Ferraro lost her battle with MM on March 6, 2011, after surviving for 12 years. Continue reading Famous Myelomans →

A Minor in Poly Cy

Journal, Myeloma, Polycythemia

EVENTS UNFOLDED RAPIDLY in Spring of 2013 when my illness first presented itself.

I complained to my internist Dr. L about unaccustomed fatigue, headaches and shortness of breath during my annual checkup in May. He had been treating me successfully for high blood pressure for a number of years. Dr. L was curious enough to order a CBC (complete blood panel) which revealed a very high red blood cell count, high hemoglobin levels and high EPO (erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red cell production).

“You need to consult a hematologist,” he advised, recommending Dr. T. So I did. Confirming blood tests and other tests ensued.

In short order, it was determined that an excess of red cells had made my blood extra thick to the point where it could not pass easily through my smallest blood vessels. It was labeled Polycythemia Vera — a bone marrow disorder, not a cancer, although perhaps that’s a purely academic distinction. Continue reading A Minor in Poly Cy →