Watch Me Kick Multiple Myeloma

Thanks to Jennifer for joining me for Treatment #11. It was extra special to get the door-to-door service🥰😘 I am supporting my girl, Michelle, today too💪🏻🩷
I made it through the end of my 28th😳 year of teaching. May went well, with just a few hiccups. Summer break has started off great. Being at the end of my recovery cycle was super helpful. It’ll be interesting to see if my extra down time will help me to gain more energy sooner during recovery🤞🏻 Thank you for all of your continued prayers & support🥰
💪🏻♥️👊🏻🎗️

Treatment #10 in the books! April went well & I’m encouraged for further treatments while still working. My muscles & joints are still trying to catch up (who’s aren’t😆)& the fatigue is there, but teaching PE is still doable, for now. I’m not the bundle of energy I used to be, but there were “sightings” here & there☺️ More so as I was feeling the strongest right before the next cycle.
Thanks to Denise for being my buddy today. We had a great time catching up😍 Bringing me dinner & yummy rhubarb crisp was an added bonus! Saving dinner for our busy 🥎 night tomorrow.
I also pulled some extra strength from Amy (💪🏻💙👁️) today💪🏻♥️👊🏻🩸🎗️

Yesterday, DeKalb High School Softball hosted the 2nd annual Strike Out Cancer event. We raised money for Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation - MMRF, a DHS teacher & a lifelong Barb parent who have both recently been diagnosed with cancer. 🥎It was a great day🥎

My April Buddy🥰 Thanks SO MUCH for joining me today, Sharon😘
I went into today’s treatment feeling optimistic. I’ve been feeling pretty good at work this week. Last week’s Spring Break was super helpful, giving me a chance to get some much needed rest. I’m looking forward to seeing how these next 4 weeks go before my next treatment. 🤞🏻I can make the 4 weeks at work w/o interuption💪🏻♥️👊🏻🩸🎗️

My induction therapy (Nov ‘22 - March ‘23) included Revlimid (chemo pill), Daratumumab (Darzalex Faspro) & Bortezomib (Velcade). Then I went through 3 days of stem cell retrieval, tandem (2) Stem Cell Transplants (March & August ‘23) & began monthly maintenance therapy (same drugs as induction, although Revlimid hasn’t been added, yet) in Nov ‘23. I also receive a bone strengthener (Xgeva) every 3 months as a precaution. My last day of teaching Middle School PE was 3/17/24 & I returned on 1/8/24. I’m fighting fatigue & am still building my endurance to be in the gym everyday. I spend a lot of time after work & on weekends resting. It has been an incredibly difficult last year & a half. It’s really surreal to think about how far I’ve come. THANK YOU for all of the phenomenal support. I am BLESSED beyond measure🙏🏻
💪🏻♥️👊🏻🩸🎗️

Myeloma Treatments: Risks and Benefits | MyMyelomaTeam

6 Facts About Myeloma Maintenance Therapy Maintenance therapy for multiple myeloma consists of ongoing treatment that starts after a stem cell transplant (SCT) and may last for years.New developmen

Doctors & Scientists are working hard to find a cure🧬🧫💊💉🌡️ I am thankful to be in remission & pray that it lasts a very long time.
🙏🏻💪🏻♥️👊🏻🩸🎗️🙏🏻

Relapse Rate for Multiple Myeloma After you receive a multiple myeloma diagnosis, first-line therapies are used to control the cancer and help you achieve remission. However, after a time o

Today I saw Dr Mehta (the specialist) & he was happy with my blood work & doesn’t want to change a thing with my treatment. I’m still in remission🎉🎉🎉 I had a little “episode” this week of weakness that was unexpected & pretty discouraging 😔 He is looking more closely at my blood work & talking with my care team to determine the cause. I’m pretty sure I overdid it a bit. Now that softball has started, I’m going to games instead of resting at home after work. I’m just going to have to adjust & try to stay calm at games🤭🫣 I go back to see him in July.
Next treatment is April 3rd💪🏻♥️👊🏻🩸🎗️

On this first day of Myeloma Awarenss Month, I was able to get back to treatment🎉 It had been about 6.5 weeks since my last treatment. The delay was due to an appointment with the specialist, that ended up getting rescheduled🙄 & then being sick last week. I was pretty wiped out this week & missed some work but luckily my blood work is good & I can get back on track.
Thanks to Sharon for hanging with me today & for the yummy Crumbl cookies😋🍪. Now to rest until those steroids kick in tomorrow🤪 💪🏻♥️👊🏻🩸🎗️

🔍 𝗠𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗠𝘆𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗺𝗮 𝗮𝘁 𝗮 𝗚𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲: A Closer Look 📊🔬

Let's dive into the world of Multiple Myeloma - a complex puzzle that we at ONCOtherapeutics are committed to solving! Here's a snapshot of key aspects:

🚨 Major Complications:
Living with Multiple Myeloma presents unique challenges:

🦴 Bone Problems: Weakening bones leads to fractures and pain.
🩺 Reduced Kidney Function: Impact on kidney function due to abnormal protein production.
🩸 Low Red Blood Cell Count: Decreased red blood cell production affecting overall health.
🛡️ Frequent Infections: Making the body more susceptible to infections.

🔍 Diagnosis:
Early detection is crucial! Physicians utilize a combination of methods:

🟡 Urine Tests: Identify abnormal proteins indicative of Multiple Myeloma.
🧪 Blood Tests: Identify abnormal proteins indicative of Multiple Myeloma.
🦴 Bone Marrow Examination: Examining marrow for cancerous cells and their characteristics.
📸 Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess bone damage.

📈 Risk Factors:
Certain factors may increase the likelihood of Multiple Myeloma:

🔍 Age: More common in individuals over 65.
🧬 Genetic Predisposition: Family history may play a role.
🩸 Gender & Race: Men and African Americans are at a higher risk.

Knowledge empowers us in the fight against Multiple Myeloma. Let's spread awareness, support one another, and work towards a future free from the impact of this disease! 💙🌐 🌟🔬

🌸✨ Mark your calendars! 📆 Next month is 𝗠𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗠𝘆𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗺𝗮 Awareness Month, and at ONCOtherapeutics, we're gearing up to spread awareness and support for those facing multiple myeloma. 💪🎗

Join us in raising awareness about this important cause that touches the lives of many. Throughout the month, we'll be sharing valuable information, inspiring stories, and resources to help educate and empower everyone in the fight against multiple myeloma.

Let's come together as a community to make a difference and show our support for those affected by this condition. 🤝💜 Stay tuned for updates, and let's make a month of unity, understanding, and strength. Together, we can make a positive impact! 🙌🔗 🌐

𝗞𝗲𝗲𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗠𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗠𝘆𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗺𝗮 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗹

Living with multiple myeloma is a journey, and at ONCOtherapeutics, we're committed to empowering you every step of the way. 🌟 Our comprehensive approach focuses on keeping multiple myeloma under control, ensuring you lead a vibrant and fulfilling life. Here's how:

🔬 Precision Medicine: Tailored treatments based on YOUR unique genetic makeup, because personalized care makes a difference.

💪 Immunotherapy: Harnessing the power of your immune system to target and fight cancer cells, paving the way for innovative and effective treatments.

🩹 Supportive Care: Beyond medical interventions, we're here to manage symptoms, address pain, and provide the emotional support you deserve.

🌐 Research Initiatives: Actively involved in groundbreaking clinical trials to bring you the latest advancements in multiple myeloma treatment.

Your journey matters, and so does your well-being. Join us at ONCOtherapeutics in the fight against multiple myeloma. Together, we're not just treating the disease; we're empowering lives.

🩸 𝗕𝗲 𝗔𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘁! Recognizing the signs of Multiple Myeloma can make all the difference. 🎗️ Here are some key symptoms to be aware of:

🚨 Persistent Bone Pain: Listen to your body. Unexplained discomfort, especially in your back, hips, or skull, could be a signal.

😴 Unexplained Fatigue: Feeling more tired than usual? It might be more than just a busy day. Investigate persistent fatigue.

🚰 Kidney Issues: Changes in urination, increased thirst, or kidney troubles can be indicators. Don't ignore these signs.

⚖️ Unexpected Weight Loss: If you're losing weight without trying, it's worth looking into.

Early detection is key to effective management. If you notice these symptoms, consult your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. Your health matters! 💙

🩸I’m Stage II🩸

I turned 🥳51🥳 this week & have been thinking a lot about this last year. There has been so many ups & downs. On top of all the medical stuff, there have been a few personal & family milestones I was able to experience, but not in the way I had hoped. I could have easily spiraled & believe me, I’ve had my moments, but I’m INCREDIBLY BLESSED to have SO MANY amazing people in my corner. Y’all have been my saving grace, helping to keep me strong when things were heavy. THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for being THE BEST TEAM EVER🎉🥰💪🏻
I’m feeling good at school & getting stronger every day. Thanks for the check ins & constant support.
My Feb treatment has been pushed back a week since I’m seeing the Myeloma specialist in Chicago on 2/15. I look forward to the energy & strength I’ll have in that extra week post Jan treatment💪🏻♥️👊🏻🩸🎗️
I hope you all are having a good 2024 so far. If not, I sincerely hope it turns around soon. Love & hugs🥰💞

Day 153: Today I had a check up with my local oncologist. My blood work is right where it needs to be🎉 Reviewed my MRI & no signs of stroke, but some minor blood flow trouble. Basically, I have an old brain. The concussion didn’t & chemo doesn’t help😶‍🌫️
Then it was treatment time💊💉🩸🩹
Thanks to Jamie for being my Buddy today. It goes by so quickly with a friend🥰
Jason brought home Culver’s for dinner, but I couldn’t finish it. Feeling run down & nauseous so out comes the queasy pops. Time to rest for the night & hope the steroids don’t kick in til morning🤞🏻💪🏻♥️👊🏻🩸🎗️

Day 141: Happy New Year🎊 I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday & had some down time to rest & rejuvenate. I am getting ready for Monday’s re-entry to teaching middle school PE. I’m excited & a bit nervous. I’ve been feeling pretty good overall. I still get a little tired after being busy, but that’s to be expected. I’m definitely ready to get back into a routine & connect with my co-workers & students. I’ll check in next week to let y’all know how I’m doing. 💪🏻♥️👊🏻🩸🎗️

Day +125: Treatment day! Everything went well & I had a fabulous chauffeur & treatment buddy🥰Thanks Amy😘 I’ve been home for just over 2 hours & I can barely keep my eyes open to post this. It’ll be an early night. We’ll see how the next few days go. 💪🏻♥️👊🏻🩸🎗️

Day +119: Today was my school day test run. I needed to see if I could hang all day as I plan to return to work in January. It went better than expected! I’m tired & may not move off the couch for the rest of the day, but I DID IT! I even sported the short hair, uncovered😉 I definitely fed off some adrenaline & the kid/PE energy. It was great to be back in the building, doing my thing🥰

Day +103: I just realized I never posted from my first maintenance treatment day, last Tuesday. I went in 7:30-9:30 a.m., I was at Day +96. The steroids are IV now, so I was hooked up for an hour & then received two injections. One is immunotherapy & the other is chemo. I will get these once a month until science comes up with a better plan or they find a cure. Recovery was a little rough. Tuesday, I was pretty out of it, until the steroids kicked in after dinner. Then I was up all night. I was feeling yucky for a couple days. I spent Thanksgiving with family, but missed out on some visiting because I needed a nap. I made it out on Sat to run a couple quick errands, but otherwise, I’ve been resting & trying to find food that agrees with me. I’m hoping each month will be better as I continue to recover from transplant & build my strength & endurance.
I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Thank you for your continued love & support. 💪🏻♥️👊🏻🩸🎗️

Silly Daisy this a.m., thinking she’s a 😺
Day +93: Treatment starts next week. I’ll be going in first thing Tuesday a.m., due to Thanksgiving. In Dec, I’ll go on a Wed afternoon so the time slot will work with my school schedule. I’m anxious to get started & see how my body responds after the SCTs. I’ll update later next week. Hope you all are having a great weekend. As always, thanks for the love & support.
💪🏻♥️👊🏻🩸🎗️

A year ago this week, I began cancer treatment. I was going weekly for immunotherapy, for 8 weeks. After that, I went every other week & added a chemo injection. I was also taking a chemo pill, all in preparation to harvest healthy stem cells & begin the autologous tandem stem cell transplant process. Now I’m in remission 🎉 & am waiting for my maintenance treatment drugs to get approved so I can go monthly for immunotherapy & chemo injections. I will also receive a bone strengthener every 3rd month. We’ll assess the plan in Feb. What a year it has been! I will NEVER be able to thank you all for your continued love, prayers & support. 💪🏻♥️👊🏻🩸🎗️

Day +76:
Today my Mom took me to Chicago for my re-staging results & the plan moving forward. All the tests came out great. There is no myeloma detected! I will be going back on the injections I was on before my first stem cell transplant. I’ll have the immunotherapy/chemo injections once a month. I have an appointment with my local oncologist in early Dec, but the specialist wants me to get on the schedule ASAP.
I’ll go back to Chicago in mid-Feb to assess how the plan is working. He may decide to add a low dose of the chemo pill too🤷🏻‍♀️
Other than that, he said to live my best life with no restrictions. I should cautiously continue to build up my strength & endurance. The plan is still to return to school in January. I’ll do my best with that. There is nothing I can do to prepare me for the craziness of middle school PE except to be in it😫 If I need a break, I’ll take a sick day😁
Nov 7 will be a year since I started treatment. What a crazy ride it’s been.
Thanks for all your love & support💪🏻♥️👊🏻🩸🎗️

💪🏻YESSSSS👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

Day +61: Today I wrapped up my re-staging tests with Myeloma bloodwork & a bone marrow biopsy. Definitely time to rest. I have a tele-visit on Thursday & then will head back to Chicago on Nov 1 for re-staging results & to discuss the plan moving forward. I’m feeling optimistic about my results, but am getting a little antsy about my recovery. Still going slow, taking every chance I get to build my strength & endurance. For every outing comes twice as much rest needed. I’m ready for needing less rest & more ability to “do”. Thanks for the check ins, hugs & support. I love Team Monty💪🏻♥️👊🏻🩸🎗️ 🍀

Day +45: I’ve been home a month. It was a busy week with all the Homecoming festivities. Going to the parade & powderpuff game Wed was A LOT, so I decided to stay home for Friday Night Lights🧡🖤🏈 I drove & stopped to grab some groceries yesterday. That was a lil rough too. Thankfully, I was picked up for HOCO pictures tonight. It was really nice, but almost too much. I feel really good at home, but when I’m out and about, I feel over stimulated & it’s draining. I think it’s good to get out a bit here & there to help me get used to it. Trying to find some balance.

Day +40: I’m still building up my strength & appetite. It’s great to have all this area to walk around. I was lucky to have some visitors this week & some support from school buddies🥰

Day +34: Yesterday, I had a couple friends visit. Thanks to Amy for taking me to run a couple errands & hanging out. Thanks to Dawn for coming to walk & visit outside. I had a great time with you both. Today, I had a follow up visit in Chicago & I hitched a ride with my sister warrior, Amy & T. J. I had a good report, except for my liver # was too high. The Dr prescribed a supplement that should help with liver inflammation. I have a telehealth visit in 2 weeks & then I go back Nov 1st after my re-staging tests in mid Oct. It was a lot of fun hanging with the Fontana’s. Thanks for the ride & lunch. You guys are the best!

Day +28: Today was a great day. It started off with a wonderful walk around Montyland with Amy Fontana. What a wonderful visit with my sister warrior💪🏻💙♥️💪🏻 Then, Joe Baum stopped by & took me for a lil ride with the top down. Super fun & great to catch up. I watched some 1996 ER & finished “Safe” on Netflix. Rounded out the night playing with the dogs a bit & then taking another lap around the pond.

Day +27: It’s National Bald is Beautiful Day, so here’s my noggin🧑🏻‍🦲 Today was a good day. I ate a bit more & got outside this evening. I had blood work yesterday & a telehealth visit this afternoon. My platelets are up to 259 & have fully recovered!!!🎉🎉🎉 I go back to Chicago for a full blood work up & visit with the specialist next Wed. I’ve got orders for restaging tests to be made in the 2nd half of Oct. I’ll get on that tomorrow. Then I’ll meet with him again to discuss maintenance therapy. For now, I’m just focusing on building my strength. 💪🏻🩸👊🏻♥️🎗️