Hope Grows for Myeloma Patients

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – What began as a broken femur to a life-changing diagnosis for one man now working to raise awareness about multiple myeloma.

Dave was diagnosed several years ago with the rare blood cancer, which forms in the bone marrow and is known to return even after treatment. 

After going through several treatment regimens that eventually stopped working, he is sharing his experience living with a disease that often requires patients to transition from one therapy to another.

Multiple myeloma is considered treatable, but there is currently no cure. 

It is the second most common blood cancer in the United States, with more than 36,000 new cases expected to be diagnosed this year. 

Over time, the disease can become resistant to treatment, making continued research and new therapies critical for patients.

Dr. Robert Rifkin, a hematologist-oncologist with UC Health System in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, says recently approved treatments are expanding options for some patients and helping extend lives.

Health experts say recognizing symptoms and speaking with a doctor early can make a difference in diagnosis and care.