The Day That Changed My Life - Multiple Myeloma Willing to Take the Risk

Ginny Johnston shares her journey with Multiple Myeloma and her decision to participate in a clinical trial at Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University. After facing the shock of her diagnosis, she had to make some very careful and well thought out decisions. Will a clinical trial work for her? What were the side effects? Is she willing to take the risk? As a survivor, Ginny can only offer hope to others.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.

The Day That Changed My Life - Tom Brokaw faces Multiple Myeloma

Once again cancer has touched a familiar face. Many are surprised and saddened by the news that Tom Brokaw has been diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma a cancer of the bone marrow, which is known to be quite difficult to treat. However, Mr. Brokaw a well known and respected American television journalist, also known as the anchor and managing editor of NBC Nightly News remains optimistic on his prognosis. In fact, he still works on various projects for NBC News. On the other hand, there are many unknown families who are facing multiple myeloma and while they silently face the uncertain journey, it is important that we send our thoughts, prayers and well wishes to them all.

Cancer patients can be overwhelmed as they navigate through the treatment plan options. Integrative Therapy is an essential part of the journey as it works to address the needs of the individual patient. Dana Farber Cancer Institute is known to be a leader in the treatment of Multiple Myeloma and also provides a comprehensive range of services for patients through the Leonard P. Zakim Center for Integrative Therapies.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.

The Day That Changed My Life - Keep On Running

Here's a runner who was diagnosed with multiple myeloma shortly after running his first marathon, that was 10 years ago. Don Wright is now in his 70's and is getting ready to run in his 71st marathon this March. After reading and listening to his journey, I knew we needed to share his journey with you. We share these journeys in hopes that it will bring hope and inspire those who have been diagnosed with cancer - knowing that you are not alone. Feel free to share this double feature of Don Wright's journey, someone may need to see this.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.

Listen here to his incredible journey on NPR

Watch Don Wright in Action :-)

The Day That Changed My Life - Living With Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a blood cancer where the plasma cells, in the bone marrow multiplies uncontrollably. The cells may cause damage to the bone, causing bone pain. As a result, myeloma may also cause anemia, damage to the organs in the body, problems with bruising/bleeding and infections.

When one is diagnosed with Multiple myeloma, it instantly creates a fear of death. However, although it is considered to be incurable - it is treatable. During the last few years, more treatments have become available that helps to prolong the lives of those diagnosed with the disease to live longer, healthier lives.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme cancer changes our lives forever.

The Day That Changed My Life - First Responders of 9/11

As we reflect on the tenth anniversary of 9/11, the memories of that day comes rushing back. I can remember hearing the initial report that a small plane had crashed into the World Trade Center, it was an odd report but things happen and I continued to work. Shortly after, the hustling and bustling intensified as people began to share out loudly that another plane hit the other tower at the World Trade Center. By this time, I realized that something whatever it is - is happening and it wasn't good.

The chaos that ensued after was frightening. The attack on the Pentagon, the towers burning, communication was completely compromised with the cell phones and some land lines not working, rumors spreading throughout the building and more. I wanted to get to my children. I needed to get them and go home where we can all be together to figure out what's going on.

I can tell you that I was in a state of shock for quite a while. The families looking for their loved ones, the volunteers from all over the country who came to help in the rescue and search efforts, the crowds gathering along the West Side and along the side roads to Ground Zero cheering on the first responders as they travel to the site - it was a heart warming yet staggering moment of reality.

The post traumatic stress disorder cases were relatively high. Various agencies offered free counseling services to anyone affected by the attacks. In addition, those who worked closely and daily at Ground Zero were not only affected by the trauma of recovering body parts and having to work in a war torn area, began to develop cancer - including rare forms of cancers. In honor of all who perished and those who worked tirelessly to reclaim the area for the families and our country, we acknowledge the heavy price they have taken on their health.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.

Steve Mosielo

The Day That Changed My Life - Multiple Myeloma

The cancer journey as we all know affects all races, genders, ages - from the rich to the poor. We have seen various high profile celebrities who have lost their battle with cancer and the specific cancer is highlighted and a new awareness seems to be in the spotlight even for a moment.

Lisa Ray, a famous Canadian born Bollywood Actress (a term used for Indian films although the term is formally used in reference to Hindi Cinema)was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma in June 2009. Lisa Ray shares her journey and is now a spokesperson to bring awareness to the cancer that certainly changed her life.

Multiple Myeloma is cancer of the plasma cells a type of white blood cell present in the bone marrow. The plasma cells normally make proteins (antibodies) that helps to fight infections. When a group of abnormal plasma/myeloma cells multiplies, it increases the number of plasma cells to a higher than normal level. As a result, these cells that normally make proteins causes the level of abnormal proteins in the blood to also go up. The complications of this process caused by multiple myeloma affects the bones, immune system, kidneys and red blood cell count.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme, cancer changes our lives forever.