Studies presented at the 21st International Myeloma Society (IMS) Annual Meeting, held September 25–28 in Rio de Janeiro, focused on several important areas:
The evolving landscape of quadruplet therapy represents a shift towards more intensive initial therapy for NDMM patients. Adding a monoclonal antibody (eg, daratumumab or isatuximab) to standard three-drug regimens has shown to significantly improve outcomes for NDMM patients, whether or not they subsequently receive an autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT). The anti-CD38 antibodies daratumumab and isatuximab were recently approved as part of quadruplet therapy for NDMM.
Daratumumab (dara) is FDA-approved as part of quadruplet therapy for NDMM patients. On September 20, 2024, the FDA also approved isatuximab (isa) in combination with VRd for transplant-ineligible (TI) NDMM patients. Updates were presented on several studies:
In the latest PERSEUS update, at a median follow-up of 47.5 months, PFS was found to be superior with dara-VRd vs VRd across all cytogenetic risk subgroups. In addition, MRD-negativity rates were significantly higher with dara-VRd: 77.3% vs 48.1% in standard-risk patients (P<0.0001) and 73.1% vs 49.3% in high-risk patients (P<0.0001)—defined as the presence of ≥1 of the following cytogenetic abnormalities: del(17p), t(4;14), t(14;16), gain (1q21), and amp(1q21). Sustained MRD negativity for ≥12 months was also higher with dara-VRd.
Likewise, in TI or transplant-deferred NDMM patients, at a median follow-up of 58.7 months, results from the CEPHEUS study indicated that the PFS was significantly higher with dara-VRd (HR, 0.57; P=0.0005), with a 54-month PFS rate of 68.1% vs 49.5%. The overall MRD-negativity rate was also significantly higher with dara-VRd (60.9%) than with VRd alone (39.4%; P<0.0001). Results from PERSEUS and CEPHEUS support the use of dara-containing quadruplets as a standard of care (SoC) for NDMM.
For isatuximab, data from the IMROZ phase 3 study at a median follow-up of 59.7 months showed that the median PFS was not reached for isa-VRd, compared to 54.3 months for VRd (HR 0.596; 98.5% CI 0.406–0.876; P=0.0005) in TI NDMM patients. Isa-VRd also led to significantly higher rates of MRD negativity in patients with CR (55.5% vs 40.9%; P=0.003; by NGS at 10-5) and sustained MRD negativity for ≥12 months (46.8% vs 24.3%; P<0.0001). These results support the use of isa-VRd as another option to dara-VRd in TI NDMM patients.
Another study of isatuximab, BENEFIT, compared isaRd with or without the addition of weekly bortezomib (isa-VRd) in TI NDMM patients. At a median follow-up of 23.5 months, the 18-month MRD-negative rate at 10-5 (by NGS) was significantly higher with isa-VRd (53%, 95% CI 44-61) than with isaRd (26%, 95% CI 19-34; P<0.0001), also supporting the use of isa-VRd in non-frail TI NDMM patients.
Isatuximab is also being evaluated in combination with carfilzomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (Isa-KRd). The IFM2020-02 MIDAS study evaluated the efficacy and safety of Isa-KRd induction therapy in NDMM patients. Among the 791 patients enrolled, the ORR was 95%, with 91% achieving very good partial response (VGPR) or better. Postinduction, the MRD negativity rate (by NGS) was 63% at a sensitivity of 10-5 and 47% at 10-6. The most common grade 3/4 adverse events (AEs) were neutropenia (25%), thrombocytopenia (5%), and infections (7%), with no new safety issues reported.
Another experimental quadruplet involves the addition of the anti-BCMA ADC belantamab mafodotin to VRd. In the phase 2 GEM-BELA-VRd trial, after 1 year of maintenance, the ORR was 96%, with a sCR/CR rate that improved over time to 82%. The MRD negativity rate was 91.2%. Ocular AEs such as blurred vision, foreign body sensation, dry eyes, and eye irritation occurred in 41.9% of patients during induction, though these improved before ASCT. Hematologic toxicity and infections, including respiratory infections, were manageable and as expected. At a median follow-up of 28.5 months, the 2-year PFS was 78%.
Belantamab mafodotin continues to be studied in the RRMM setting, with positive data from the DREAMM-7 and DREAMM-8 studies. The drug is expected to make a comeback on the market for use as a second-line option for RRMM patients; FDA application filing is expected by the end of 2024.
Several studies focused on special populations, including patients ≥65 years and patients with high-risk disease.
Although the PERSEUS trial showed a reduced risk of progression or death with dara-RVd relative to RVd in patients 18–70 years old, the impact in patients ≥65 years (25.5% of patients) was less robust than in patients <65 years. To further investigate the benefit of dara-RVd in patients ≥65, researchers analyzed outcomes in 1,000 consecutive NDMM patients treated with RVd between January 2007 and August 2016 and 326 NDMM patients treated with dara-RVd induction therapy from April 2018 to August 2022. Results showed that patients ≥65 had a 4-year PFS of 95% with dara-RVd, compared to 59% with RVd. The ≥VGPR rate was also higher in patients ≥65 treated with dara-RVd (88.7%) than in those treated with RVd (66.4%). The findings suggest that despite the less pronounced benefit observed in the phase 3 PERSEUS trial, dara-RVd still provides a significant PFS advantage in older patients in the real-world setting.
Results from the GMMG-CONCEPT trial confirm the potency of isa-KRd in inducing and maintaining MRD-negative remissions in in high-risk NDMM patients. Researchers evaluated isa-KRd in patients with high-risk NDMM, defined as ISS stage 2 or 3 and any of the following chromosomal abnormalities: del17p, t(4;14), t(14;16), or ≥3 copies 1q21(amp1q21). At a median follow-up of 54 months, transplant-eligible patients had a 4-year PFS rate of 59.4% and an OS rate of 72.3%, whereas TI patients had 4-year PFS and OS rates of 54.3% and 65.9%, respectively. Achieving MRD negativity (by NGS at 10-5) was associated with a significantly improved PFS and was more pronounced in patients who remained MRD-negative (HR 0.11, 95% CI: 0.05–0.28).
Another analysis of data from the GMMG-CONCEPT trial assessed cardiovascular biomarkers. Although elevated NT-proBNP levels were common (76% of patients) before treatment, they did not predict cardiovascular AEs (CVAEs). However, baseline high-sensitive troponin I (hs-TnI) levels of ≥2.9 ng/L were associated with a significantly higher risk of developing CVAEs during treatment (P=0.0059); patients with baseline hs-TnI levels <2.9 ng/L were less likely to experience CVAEs, indicating that hs-TnI could be a predictive biomarker for cardiovascular risk in this high-risk patient population.
The CC-220-MM-001 trial was designed to evaluate a novel triplet regimen combining iberdomide, daratumumab, and dexamethasone (IberDd) in TI NDMM patients. Iberdomide is an experimental thalidomide analog that works as a cereblon E3 ligase modulator (CELMoD) and has a higher binding affinity than lenalidomide or pomalidomide. At a median follow-up of 11.14 months, the ORR was 97.3%, with 45.2% achieving ≥CR and 84.9% achieving ≥VGPR. MRD negativity at 10-5 was observed in 45.2% of patients with a response of ≥VGPR. Grade 3/4 treatment-emergent AEs (TEAEs) occurred in 93.3% of patients, primarily hematologic, including neutropenia (74.7%) and febrile neutropenia (12%). These results indicate that IberDd has promising efficacy and a manageable safety profile with the convenience of oral dosing in this patient population.
Iberdomide is currently in phase 3 clinical trials as single-agent maintenance therapy compared to Revlimid for NDMM patients following ASCT and in combination with daratumumab-dex compared to bortezomib-daratumumab-dex for RRMM patients.
Lenalidomide used as a single agent is considered standard maintenance therapy after transplant, but studies are under way to investigate combination approaches or novel approaches such as with the CELMoD iberdomide. As noted, MRD-guided approaches are also being studied to optimize maintenance duration.
Daratumumab combined with lenalidomide (dara-R) vs R alone as maintenance therapy was evaluated in the AURIGA phase 3 study of NDMM patients. The study found that the addition of dara to R significantly increased the MRD-negativity conversion rate at 12 months (50.5% vs 18.8%; OR 4.51; 95% CI: 2.37–8.57; P<0.0001). At a median follow-up of 32.3 months, PFS also favored the dara-R group (HR 0.53; 95% CI: 0.29–0.97) with an estimated 30-month PFS rate of 82.7% compared to 66.4% for R alone. The safety profile was manageable, with no new AEs observed.
MRD is being assessed as a measure for evaluating treatment efficacy, determining the need for treatment modification, and potentially allowing for treatment cessation in some patients. To date, no standard for using MRD in practice has been established. Several studies presented at IMS shed light on the utility of MRD in guiding treatment decisions.
One study evaluating the long-term dynamics of MRD in MM patients highlighted the importance of periodic MRD re-evaluation. An analysis of 313 patients who achieved a complete response (CR) after first-line therapy found that one third of patients changed MRD status over time (measured by next-generation flow cytometry). Of note, patients who went from MRD-positive to MRD-negative showed a more favorable prognosis than those who remained consistently MRD negative. The study also suggested that MRD status changes were accompanied by alterations in bone marrow composition, warranting further study. Ultimately, the changing dynamics of MRD status suggest the need for periodic MRD re-evaluation in patients.
Several methods are currently available for measuring MRD in MM, all of which require bone marrow biopsy samples. Techniques for assessing MRD from blood samples, such as through mass spectrometry (MS), are under investigation. Liquid chromatography-MS (LC-MS) may be useful for identifying exceptional responders, according to an analysis of two pooled studies of NDMM patients (N=74). In this analysis, the researchers determined that LC-MS allowed for sensitive detection of monoclonal protein in peripheral blood, though MALDI-TOF MS is the most frequently used method due to its high-throughput and cost-effectiveness. The study found that LC-MS demonstrated approximately 10 times more sensitivity than the commonly used MALDI-TOF MS. In this analysis, MRD negativity by LC-MS was linked to longer progression-free survival (PFS), with a significant hazard ratio (0.12) compared to patients showing positive by standard methods. The results suggest that LC-MS, along with bone marrow MRD assessment, may improve prognostic accuracy in NDMM, offering a potential pathway to more personalized treatment.
A phase 2 study evaluating the utility of MRD in guiding cessation of lenalidomide maintenance therapy in standard-risk patients (International Staging System [ISS] 1 or 2) found that patients with prolonged MRD-negative status (>3 years after cessation of maintenance therapy; assessed by multiparametric flow cytometry) had a low risk of progression. Of the 43 patients enrolled, 84% remained MRD-negative at 12 months post cessation, and the 24-month MRD-negative rate was 82% (95% CI 69%–96%). PFS at 24 months was 91% (95% CI 81%–100%). Durable MRD negativity (at 24 months) for standard-risk patients was 87% vs 66% for high-risk or stage not reported. The results suggest that stopping lenalidomide maintenance in standard-risk patients with prolonged MRD-negative status is feasible, with a low risk of progression.
Another phase 2 study, MILESTONE, assessed the feasibility of using postinduction MRD status to defer autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) in NDMM patients. Of the 20 patients enrolled, 5 achieved MRD negativity (<10-5 via next-generation sequencing [NGS]) postinduction and deferred ASCT. At a median follow-up of 18.4 months, there were no cases of disease progression or deaths, and the overall response rate (ORR) was 100%, with CR or better in 80% of patients. These findings suggest that MRD-guided treatment may offer an opportunity to safely defer ASCT, a concept that will be further evaluated in the ongoing phase 2 MASTER-2 trial.
The standard of care for MM patients who have relapsed after 1–3 lines of therapy includes combination regimens with agents from three classes: proteasome inhibitors (PIs), immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs), and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Ciltacabtagene autoleucel (cilta-cel), a B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-directed CAR T-cell therapy, was recently FDA-approved for the treatment of adult RRMM patients who have received ≥1 prior line of therapy, including a PI and an IMiD, and are refractory to lenalidomide. Studies presented at IMS included a 3-year follow-up of the phase 3 CARTITUDE-4, on which the latest cilta-cel approval is based, as well as data on several novel agents.
Findings from the CARTITUDE-4 study continue to support the overall benefit-risk profile of cilta-cel vs SoC in the early-relapse setting. The 3-year follow-up data showed a significant improvement in OS compared to SoC in patients with lenalidomide-refractory MM. After a median follow-up of 34 months, median OS was not reached in either treatment group, with an HR of 0.55 (95% CI, 0.39–0.79; P=0.0009), indicating a 45% reduction in the risk of death relative to SoC. PFS was also notably longer with cilta-cel, with a median PFS not reached (95% CI, 34.50 mo–NE) vs 11.79 months (95% CI, 9.66–14.00) in the SoC group. The ORR was significantly higher with cilta-cel (85% vs 67%), and the median time to symptom worsening was not reached with cilta-cel and 34.33 months with SoC (HR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.24–0.61; P<0.0001). Both treatment arms showed similar rates of grade 3/4 AEs, though cilta-cel showed a favorable impact on quality of life and survival outcomes.
BMS-986393 demonstrated promising safety and efficacy in RRMM patients who had 1–3 prior regimens. In this phase 1 study, 31 patients received a single infusion of BMS-986393 at 150 × 106 CAR T cells. At a median follow-up of 4.9 months, the ORR was 96%, including a CR rate of 42%, with 87% of responses ongoing. TEAEs were reported in 97% of patients, with 81% experiencing grade 3/4 TEAEs; however, there were no deaths, and all cytokine release syndrome (CRS) cases (81%) were mild (grade 1/2) and resolved. Similarly, ICANS cases were mild (grade 1/2) and occurred in 10% of patients. As seen with other GPRC5D-targeted agents, AEs of the mouth, nails, or skin occurred in 48% of patients (grade 1/2). These results suggest that BMS-986393 has a favorable safety profile and warrant further evaluation in this setting.
Two reports from the DREAMM-8 trial were presented at IMS, providing evidence for the efficacy and safety of belantamab mafodotin-based regimens that could support regulatory approval in the U.S. DREAMM-8 is a phase 3 trial comparing belantamab mafodotin plus pomalidomide and dexamethasone (BPd) vs bortezomib plus pomalidomide and dexamethasone (PVd) in 302 patients who had a median of 1 prior lines of therapy.
Results with a median follow-up of 21.78 months showed median PFS not reached for the BPd arm (95% CI, 20.6–NR) compared to 12.7 months (95% CI, 9.1–18.5) for PVd (HR 0.52; 95% CI, 0.37–0.73; P<0.001). The ORR was 77% with BPd vs 72% with PVd, with a higher rate of CR or better in the BPd group (40% vs 16%). Although ocular AEs were more frequent with BPd (89% vs 30% in PVd), the safety profile was manageable and consistent with the known profiles of the agents.
Another presentation of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) from DREAMM-8 indicated that global health status/quality of life (GHS/QOL), physical functioning, fatigue, and pain were maintained over time in both treatment groups. There were no significant differences (≥10 points) between the two arms in these domains. Patients receiving BPd reported a higher incidence of vision-related function worsening and ocular symptoms, but these improved for most patients within a median of 57 days. Most symptomatic AEs were reported as low severity, with blurred vision and fatigue more commonly reported at higher levels in the BPd arm. Overall, both BPd and PVd treatments resulted in stable health-related QOL and were generally well tolerated.
The phase 2 IFM study evaluated the efficacy and safety of an all-oral triplet combination of iberdomide, ixazomib, and dexamethasone in older MM patients at first relapse. Seventy patients (median age 76, range 70–87) were included, with 81% previously treated with bortezomib, 87% previously treated with lenalidomide (74% refractory) and 40% treated with daratumumab (37% refractory). After a median follow-up of 14 months, the 12-month PFS was 52%, and the OS was 85%. The ORR was 65%, including 36% VGPR. The treatment was well tolerated, with the most common grade 3/4 AEs being neutropenia (46%), thrombocytopenia (9%), and infection (8%). Four patients discontinued treatment due to a serious AE. These results suggest that this oral triplet regimen offers a favorable efficacy and safety profile for older MM patients, including those who are refractory to lenalidomide and daratumumab.
For MM patients who have relapsed after >3 lines of therapy, SoC depends on prior treatment and increasingly involves bispecific antibodies (bsAbs; teclistamab, talquetamab, or elranatamab); and/or CAR T-cell therapy (cilta-cel or ide-cel). Several studies at IMS focused on novel agents, and there was a retrospective comparison of cilta-cel and ide-cel.
Two retrospective studies investigated the safety and efficacy of idecabtagene vicleucel (ide-cel) and ciltacabtagene autoleucel (cilta-cel) CAR T-cell therapies in RRMM patients. The first study was a retrospective chart review of data from 586 RRMM patients treated with cilta-cel (n=236) or ide-cel (n=350). Cilta-cel was associated with a higher likelihood of grade ≥3 CRS (OR 6.19; 95% CI, 2.10–18.24) and delayed neurotoxicity (OR 33.01; 95% CI, 4.38–248.48) but showed improved treatment responses, including a higher rate of CR or better (OR 2.49; 95% CI, 1.68–3.69). Patients treated with cilta-cel also had longer PFS (HR 0.47; 95% CI, 0.36–0.63) and OS (HR 0.66; 95% CI, 0.46–0.95) compared to those treated with ide-cel. Despite a less favorable safety profile, cilta-cel demonstrated superior efficacy and survival benefits.
The second study assessed 236 RRMM patients from 16 US academic centers who received a cilta-cel infusion. Median age was 64 years, with 30% of patients having penta-refractory disease, 34% extramedullary disease, 39% high-risk cytogenetics, and 6% plasma cell leukemia. Median prior lines of therapy was 6; 14% of patients had prior BCMA therapy, and 4% had prior bsAb therapy. CRS occurred in 75% of patients (5% grade ≥3), ICANs (4% grade ≥3) in 14%, and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis-like syndrome in 2%. Delayed neurotoxicity occurred in 10% of patients with median onset at 24 days and resolved in 54% of patients at last follow-up; 21% of patients died with ongoing symptoms. Severe infections occurred in 21% of patients and second primary malignancies in 8.5%. ORR and CR rates were 89% and 70%, respectively. Twelve-month PFS rate was 68%. Inferior PFS was observed in patients with prior BCMA therapy, high-risk cytogenetics, and extramedullary disease. These results suggest that cilta-cel use is associated with longer PFS; however, patient selection and monitoring for AEs is critical.
The phase 1b TRIMM-2 study evaluated the combination of talquetamab (CD3 × GPRC5D), daratumumab, and pomalidomide in heavily pretreated RRMM patients. The combination showed a promising depth and durability of response. Among 77 patients (median 6 prior lines of therapy), the ORR was 81.8%, with 53.2% achieving a CR or better. The median duration of response was 22.1 months (95% CI, 13.6–27.0), and the median PFS was 15.5 months (95% CI, 11.7–24.4). The most common AEs included neutropenia (77.9% with 68.8% grade 3/4) and CRS (74.0%, all grade 1/2).
Another phase 1b study, RedirecTT-1, assessed the combination of talquetamab (CD3 × GPRC5D) and teclistamab (CD3 × BCMA) in patients with triple-class exposed RRMM. Among 94 patients treated at a median follow-up of 20.3 months, the ORR was 79.5%, and the probability of patients remaining in response at 18 months was 85.9%. The most common AEs included CRS (78.7%, mostly grade 1/2) and neutropenia (73.4%, with 68.1% grade 3/4). This dual-targeting bsAb combination showed consistent efficacy across dose levels and in patients with high-risk features, supporting further study in phase 2.
An ongoing phase 1b study, MagnetisMM-30, is under way to evaluate the safety and efficacy of combining elranatamab (CD3 × BCMA) with iberdomide. Part 1 of the study will involve dose escalation, and part 2 will optimize the dose. Patients will receive SC elranatamab weekly and oral iberdomide for 21 days in each 28-day cycle.
Results from several phase 1 and 2 studies evaluating CAR T cell therapy were reported, generally showing promising outcomes and acceptable toxicity.
| CAR T-cell therapy* | ||||
| Durcabtagene autoleucel (PHE885) | HBI0101 | P-BCMA-ALLO1 | Anitocabtagene autoleucel (anito-cel) |
|
| Study phase | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| N | 145 | 84 | 34 | 38 |
| ORR (%) | 92 | 92 | NA | 100 |
| CR rate (%) | 53 | 55 | NA | 76 |
| CRS (%) | 96 (6 grade ≥3) | 95 (19 grade 3) | 29 (all grade ≤2) | 95 (2 grade ≥3) |
| Neurotoxicity (%) | 13 (4 grade ≥3) | 4 (0 grade ≥3) | 3 (grade 2) | 18 (5 grade ≥3) |
| Additional findings | 6-month PFS, 86% (FAS, ≥6 months follow-up) | MRD negative, 74%; median OS, NR | No dose-limiting toxicities or GvHD; Most common grade ≥3 AEs: neutropenia, 61%; leukopenia, 55%; lymphopenia 45% | MRD negative, 89% (at 10-5); median DOR, PFS, and OS not reached; 24-month estimated PFS rate: 56% |
*Comparison between these studies should be undertaken with caution, because these drugs have not been compared in a head-to-head fashion and each trial varied in its design and eligibility requirements.
AEs, adverse events; CRS, cytokine release syndrome; FAS, full analysis set; GvHD, graft-versus-host disease; MRD, minimal residual disease; NA, not available; ORR, overall response rate; OS, overall survival; PFS, progression-free survival.
Results from a phase 1/2 trial evaluating three new agents in RRMM patients were presented: an ADC targeting BCMA with a novel amanitin payload, a CELMoD, and a BCL2 inhibitor. Preliminary results show initial safety profiles and responses in heavily pretreated RRMM patients.
| Novel agent* | |||
| HDP-101 | Mezigdomide | Sonrotoclax | |
| Drug class | ADC | CELMoD | BCL2 inhibitor |
| Study phase | 1/2a | 1/2 | 1b/2 |
| N | 18 | 13 | 20 with t(11;14) |
| Treatment | Single-agent | Combined with tazemetostat and dexamethasone | Combined with dexamethasone |
| Safety |
· No dose-limiting toxicities (including ocular disorders) · Mild transient thrombocytopenia in the highest dose cohort |
· Common grade 3/4 TEAEs · Neutropenia, 46.2% · Anemia,15.4% |
· Common TEAEs · Insomnia, 30% · Diarrhea, fatigue, and nausea, 25% each · Hematologic toxicity was minimal |
| Efficacy |
· PR, 3 pts (highest dose) · SD, 1 pt (lowest dose) |
· ORR, 53.8% · sCR, 1 pt · VGPR, 2 pts |
· ORR, 80% · 40% ≥VGPR |
*Comparison between these studies should be undertaken with caution, because these drugs have not been compared in a head-to-head fashion and each trial varied in its design and eligibility requirements.
ADC, antibody-drug conjugate; CELMoD, cereblon E3 ligase modulatory drug; TEAEs, treatment-emergent adverse events; PR, partial response; SD, stable disease; sCR stringent complete response; VGPR, very good partial response; ORR, overall response rate.
Jointly provided by the MMRF and RedMedEd.
Support for this activity has been provided through sponsorships from Pfizer Inc, and Sanofi US and by an educational grant from Janssen Biotech, Inc., administered by Janssen Scientific Affairs, LLC.
Pastor Steven Dial Sr. was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in October of 2022, and over the course of the next 10 months, he faced an incredibly challenging and courageous journey. Despite the aggressive nature of the disease, he remained steadfast in his faith and commitment to serving others. The treatments were grueling, often leaving him physically drained, yet he never allowed the illness to diminish his spirit or his desire to continue ministering to his congregation. Even on the toughest days, he pushed through the pain and fatigue, always focusing on uplifting those around him. His strength, determination, and unwavering trust in God throughout this difficult period left an indelible mark on all who witnessed his fight. Though his body weakened, his heart and hope never faltered, serving as a powerful example of perseverance, faith, and love in the face of life’s most trying circumstances.
How did you get involved with the MMRF?
Our family became involved with the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) after my father, Pastor Steven Dial Sr., was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. Initially, we sought answers and support for the battle we were facing. The MMRF not only provided vital information about the disease but also became a source of hope and community. My father was passionate about raising awareness and supporting research, knowing that it could help others battling the same disease. It was important to him to contribute to a cause that was pushing forward in finding a cure.
Why did you choose to participate in the MMRF Walk/Run?
We chose to participate in the MMRF Walk/Run to honor my father’s fight and legacy. He always believed in being active and doing what he could to make a difference in his community, and this event allowed us to continue that mission. Participating also helped us feel like we were fighting alongside him and other families affected by multiple myeloma. The walk became not only an opportunity to raise funds for critical research but also to show that, even in the face of illness, we can still be a part of something bigger that brings hope and healing to others.
The Spirit of Hope is given to “individuals/groups who inspire hope and show extraordinary commitment to the MMRF.” What does being given the award mean to you?
Receiving the Spirit of Hope Award in honor of my father is a deep and profound recognition of the way he lived his life. For him, hope wasn’t just a word—it was a guiding principle. He inspired everyone around him to keep believing, keep pushing, and never lose faith in God’s plan. To me, this award is a reminder of his unwavering spirit in the face of adversity and a continuation of the legacy he left behind. It’s a testimony to how his life continues to inspire hope in others, even after his passing.
How have you found perseverance in light of obstacles? Please share any stories that have given you strength.
Perseverance has always been deeply rooted in my faith and the example my father set. Watching him face multiple myeloma with such strength, grace, and determination has given me the courage to face my own challenges. I remember, even on his hardest days, he never lost his optimism or his desire to uplift those around him. He continued to preach, lead, and care for our congregation despite the toll the disease was taking on his body. That resilience reminds me that obstacles are temporary, but the impact we leave on others is lasting. I draw strength from knowing that if he could endure his fight with such grace, then I, too, can persevere through life’s difficulties.
Do you have a favorite mantra, quote, or lyric that gives you strength?
One of the scriptures that has always given my family strength is 1 Corinthians 13:13: “And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.” This verse was a cornerstone of my father’s life and ministry. It reminds me that no matter what obstacles we face, faith sustains us, hope drives us forward, and love—the greatest of all—keeps us connected to one another and to God. In times of struggle, I find strength knowing that love remains, even through loss, and it continues to inspire hope for the future.
Anything to add?
I would just add that while my father is no longer with us, his spirit lives on in the fight to find a cure for multiple myeloma. I believe that every step taken, every dollar raised, and every effort to raise awareness honors his memory and all the others affected by this disease. It’s my hope that we continue to inspire others to join the cause and that someday we’ll celebrate not just the hope for a cure—but the reality of one.
The MMRF is delighted to recognize Team Dial in memory of Pastor Steven Dial Sr. as the MMRF Spirit of Hope Honoree at the 2024 MMRF Team for Cures: Atlanta Walk/Run. Donate to Team Dial today to accelerate a cure!
This award is presented at every Walk/Run to a patient, caregiver, or family who inspires hope through their resilience, perseverance, and dedication to the MMRF and its mission.
How did you get involved with the MMRF?
When I was diagnosed in 2006, we had never heard of multiple myeloma, but had several doctors in our lives who suggested we research it. We found the MMRF. The MMRF was a tremendous resource and helped us answer many questions and find where the best treatment would be. And thanks to the great support, I was treated at the Myeloma Institute for Research & Therapy at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. And now, in a full circle moment, my daughter, Pam, is working with the MMRF as the Vice- President of Development!
Why did you choose to participate in the MMRF Walk/Run?
It’s very important for me to do things to give back since I feel so blessed to be cured. And because of monies that have been raised over the years for research, more and more people will have more treatment options.
The Spirit of Hope is given to “individuals/groups that inspire hope and show extraordinary commitment to the MMRF.” What does being given the award mean to you?
After the initial shock of being diagnosed and not knowing what the outcome would be, I am very honored to be able to stand on the stage and say thank you to those who have supported me and others who are on this same journey. Hope and faith were a part of my journey, which was centered on my family, friends, children, and grandchildren. I share this hope and honor with the doctors, nurses, and researchers who were a part of my world and will never be forgotten.
How have you found perseverance in light of obstacles? Please share any stories that have given you strength.
One of my nurses told me that the body is born well—it is always working hard to not be sick. It is fighting every day for you to be the best that you can be!! Even when you lose your hair, the medicine is doing its job, too!!! Focus on the thing/things that make you the happiest!!
Whenever I was scared or feeling uneasy, Dr. Barlogie always held my hands, looked me straight in the eye, and said, “Don’t worry, we’re going to take very good care of you.”
Do you have a favorite mantra, quote, lyric that gives you strength?
No, but the psychologist I worked with always said when you wake up, go into the bathroom, look in the mirror, and acknowledge the day and how you are feeling. Then put on your lipstick, put on your hat, and notice that you are dressed (“put your battle gear on”) and ready for the day.
Anything to add?
For everything they have done, I want to thank my medical team in Little Rock, my Houston oncologist Dr. Susan Escudier, my friends, my precious family (especially my sister Judy), Dr. Paul Gerson, and most of all, my husband Richard. And, in gratitude, I now volunteer as a mentor to other patients who have been diagnosed with myeloma to help them on their journey.
The MMRF is delighted to recognize Susan Speer as the MMRF Spirit of Hope Honoree at the 2024 MMRF Walk/Run: Houston. Donate to Susan’s MMRF Walk/Run page to accelerate a cure today!
This award is presented at every Walk/Run to a patient, caregiver, or family who inspires hope through their resilience, perseverance, and dedication to the MMRF and its mission.
Several presentations at this year’s American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting and European Hematology Association (EHA) 2024 Hybrid Congress featured new data from multiple myeloma (MM) studies. In many cases, the emerging data indicate promising outcomes associated with newer treatment approaches, including CD38-targeting monoclonal antibodies, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, bispecific antibodies (bsAbs), and antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs).
Results from several trials support the use of isatuximab (isa) or daratumumab (dara) in combination with bortezomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (VRd), representing a new standard of care (SoC) for newly diagnosed MM (NDMM).
Data from the phase 3 IMROZ study of NDMM patients were presented at both ASCO and EHA (and published in the New England Journal of Medicine). Overall, 446 patients underwent randomization (median age, 72; range, 55-80). Thierry and colleagues reported that isa-VRd significantly improved progression-free survival (PFS), with a median PFS not reached vs 54.3 months for VRd (HR [hazard ratio] 0.596, 98.5% confidence interval [CI] 0.406–0.876, P=0.0005). The projected median PFS approached 90 months. In addition, complete response (CR) rates and minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity were higher in the isa-VRd group. Sustained MRD negativity at 10-5 by next-generation sequencing (defined as MRD negative for ≥12 months) favored isa-VRd over VRd (46.8% vs 24.3%; P<0.0001). MRD negativity was associated with improved PFS in both treatment groups, but to a lesser extent in patients treated with VRd (similar survival benefit in patients with sustained MRD negativity). Serious adverse events (AEs) were reported in 70.7% of patients receiving isa-VRd and 67.4% of those receiving VRd. The incidence of grade ≥3 infection was 44.9% with isa-VRd and 38.1% with VRd (for both groups, incidence was lower in patients who received antibiotic prophylaxis than in those who did not).
These data are now under review with the FDA to support a new indication for isatuximab in combination with VRd for the treatment of adult transplant-ineligible NDMM patients. A decision is expected in the fall of 2024.
The phase 3 GMMG-HD7 trial of isatuximab, presented at EHA, also supported use of isa-VRd followed by autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) in NDMM patients. Interim results showed that patients receiving Isa-VRd after transplantation had significantly higher rates of very good partial response [VGPR] or better (82.8% vs 68.7%; OR 2.19, 95% CI 1.49–3.23, P<0.0001) and CR or better (43.5% vs 34.0%; OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.08–2.07, P=0.013) compared to those receiving VRd without isatuximab. Additionally, MRD negativity rates were significantly higher in the isa-VRd group (66.2% vs 47.7%; OR 2.13, 95% CI 1.56–2.92, P<0.001).
The phase 3 PERSEUS trial evaluated the addition of daratumumab to VRd vs VRd alone in NDMM patients. The study found that the addition of daratumumab was associated with a higher rate of CR or greater and MRD negativity at various depths and time points compared to VRd alone; for example, MRD negativity at 10-6 at 36 months was 63.9% vs 30.8%, P<0.0001, respectively. Sustained MRD negativity for ≥12 months was also higher in the dara-VRd group. More patients (who remained MRD positive following consolidation therapy) in the dara-VRd group than the VRd group achieved MRD negativity at 10-6 (62.3% vs 31%; P<0.0001) with maintenance therapy. Sustained MRD negativity (at 10-6 for 12 months) was 34.4% in patients receiving dara-VRd and 12.7% in patients receiving VRd (P<0.0001).
According to Sonneveld and colleagues, “these data further support dara-VRd followed by dara-R maintenance as a new SoC for patients with NDMM and highlight the benefit of daratumumab in maintenance.”
These data are now under review with the FDA to support a new indication for daratumumab in combination with VRd for induction and consolidation treatment and with lenalidomide (dara-R) for maintenance treatment of adult NDMM patients. A decision is expected in the summer of 2024.
Data from two CARTITUDE cohorts showed a benefit for cilta-cel. CARTITUDE-4 evaluated cilta-cel vs SoC in patients with functional high-risk (FHR) MM after 1–3 prior lines of therapy; FHR was defined as the development of progressive disease within 18 months of receiving ASCT or the start of initial frontline therapy. In a subgroup analysis, cilta-cel significantly improved PFS compared to SoC in FHR patients (median PFS not reached vs 12 months, HR 0.27, 95% CI, 0.1–0.6, P=0.0006). Additionally, cilta-cel resulted in a higher rate of ≥CR (68% vs 39%, OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.3–8.4). These findings support the use of cilta-cel in high-risk MM and demonstrated a manageable safety profile.
Likewise, in the CARTITUDE-2 cohort, Roeloffzen and colleagues evaluated cilta-cel with or without lenalidomide maintenance in patients with NDMM and a suboptimal response (<CR) to ASCT. At a median follow-up of 22 months, 80% (12/15) of patients with MRD-evaluable disease achieved MRD negativity at 10-5, with a 94% overall response rate (≥CR, 94%). PFS and overall survival (OS) rates at 18 months were 94%. Treatment-emergent AEs (TEAEs) included neutropenia (94%), lymphopenia (65%), and cytokine release syndrome (CRS) in 82% of patients, all grade 1/2.
According to the researchers, these data “show promising efficacy and safety with cilta-cel with or without lenalidomide maintenance in patients… who achieved a [suboptimal response] after ASCT frontline therapy.”
The KarMMa-2 Cohort 2B phase 2 study evaluated ide-cel in patients who had functional high-risk MM (those who relapsed within 18 months of first-line therapy without undergoing ASCT). The results indicated that ide-cel provides deep, durable responses with a manageable safety profile in high-risk patients with early relapse MM. In 31 patients treated, the ORR was 94% (95% CI 79%–99%), with a 71% CR rate. High MRD negativity rates were observed at 12 and 24 months in patients achieving partial response or better. The median duration of response (DOR) was not reached, with a 24-month DOR rate of 65%; PFS rates were 70% at 12 months and 63% at 24 months. Grade 3/4 AEs were reported in 94% of patients, primarily neutropenia (94%) and thrombocytopenia (35%), but no grade ≥3 CRS or neurotoxicity was observed.
The DESCAR-T registry evaluated outcomes in RRMM patients who experienced early progression after ide-cel therapy. The study highlights the need for better prognostic factors for ide-cel and suggests that bsAbs, particularly those targeting different antigens, may improve outcomes for patients relapsing early on after ide-cel. In 221 patients, 79 relapsed, with a median time to relapse of 5.5 months. The median OS from the first subsequent antimyeloma therapy was 8.4 months, and PFS was 2.6 months. Patients with early relapse (≤6 months) had worse outcomes, with a median PFS of 2.5 months vs 7.8 months for later relapse (P=0.041) and a median OS of 5.4 months vs not reached for later relapse (P=0.053). Patients receiving bsAbs showed a higher median PFS (3.8 months) compared to other therapies (1.8 months, P=0.008), with anti-GPRC5D bsAbs showing better outcomes than anti-BCMA bsAbs. According to the researchers, patients relapsing after Ide-cel had a poor outcome even with the use of bsAbs.
“This reinforces the need for better prognostic factors to select patients before ide-cel. In case of early relapse after ide-cel, our results seem to favor the use of a bsAb, especially directed against a different target than BCMA.”
Novel CAR T-cell therapies reported on—including zevorcabtagene autoleucel (zevor-cel), a fully human anti-BCMA CAR T-cell therapy—demonstrated high ORRs and deep remissions in the LUMMICAR01 phase 2 study. A fully humanized approach may result in reduced immunogenicity and increased persistence relative to murine therapy. Another anti-BCMA CAR T-cell therapy, anitocabtagene autoleucel (anito-cel), demonstrated significant efficacy and manageable toxicity in the iMMagine-1 phase 1 study. A third agent, OriCAR-017, which targets GPRC5D, showed a 100% ORR and an excellent safety profile in the phase 1 Polaris study.
| CAR T cell agent | Zevo-cel | Anito-cel | OriCAR-017 |
| Target | BCMA | BCMA | GPRC5D |
| Study | Phase 2 LUMMICAR-1 | Phase 1 iMMagine |
Phase 1 POLARIS |
| No. patients | 102 | 38 | 10 |
| Median no. prior therapies (range) | 4 (3-15) | 4 (3-16) | 5.5 (3-17) |
| Efficacy | |||
| ORR (%) | 92.2 | 100 | 100 |
| Responses (%) | 71.6, sCR/CR 19.6, VGPR |
76, sCR/CR 16, VGPR |
80, sCR 20, VGPR |
| MRD negativity rate (%) | 100 in sCR/CR (at 10-5) | 89 in evaluable pts (at 10-5) | 100 (threshold NR) |
| Median DOR (mos) | NR | Not reached | 10.43 |
| PFS | NR | 92%, 6 mo 76%, 12 mo 64%, 18 mo 56%, 24 mo |
Median 11.4 (mos) |
| Side effects | |||
| CRS, all grades (grade 3/4), % | 90.2 (6.9) | 95 (3) | 100 (0) |
| Neurotoxicity/ICANS, all grades (grade 3/4), % | 2 (0) | 18.4 (5.3) | 0 (0) |
NR, not reported
Also presented were data on novel CAR T-cell agents being evaluated in NDMM following induction therapy: GC012F is an autologous BCMA and CD19 dual-targeting CAR-T therapy that uses the FasTCAR-T platform, enabling next-day manufacturing rather than the standard 9–14 days. Another agent, eque-cel, is a fully human BCMA-targeting CAR-T therapy, evaluated in the FUMANBA-2 study.
| CAR T-cell agent | GC012F (FasTCAR-T) | Eque-cel |
| Target | BCMA × CD19 | BCMA |
| Study | Phase 1 | Phase 1 FUMANBA-2 |
| No. patients | 22 | 16 |
| Patient population | HR NDMM | HR NDMM |
| High-risk features | 91%, R-ISS stage II or III 55%, EMD 32%, 1q21 ≥4 copies 9%, IgD subtype |
37.5%, R-ISS stage III 25%, EMD 62.5% double-hit cytogenetics 12.5% triple-hit |
| Efficacy | ||
| ORR (%) | 100 | 100 |
| Responses (%) | 95.5, sCR | 93.8, sCR/CR |
| MRD negativity rate (%) | 100 (at 10-6) | 100 (at 10-5) |
| Median DOR (mos) | Not reached | Not reached |
| PFS | 95.45%, 18 mo | 93.8%, 6 mo 84.4%, 12 mo |
| Side effects | ||
| CRS, all grades (grade 3/4), % | 27 (0) | 68.8 (0) |
| Neurotoxicity, all grades (grade 3/4), % | 0 (0) | 0 (0) |
HR, high risk
Currently, the bsAbs approved for MM include elranatamab (CD3 × BCMA), talquetamab (CD3 × GPRC5D), and teclistamab (CD3 × BCMA), which are the preferred options for RRMM after at least four prior therapies. All three bsAbs carry boxed warnings for CRS and neurologic toxicity, including immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS).
Long-term follow-up of the MajesTEC-1 study found that prophylactic tocilizumab effectively reduced CRS incidence, supporting its potential use for outpatient teclistamab administration. In 24 RRMM patients, the incidence of CRS was reduced to 25% (all grade 1 or 2), compared to 72% in the overall study population. The median time to CRS onset was 2 days, and all CRS events resolved without leading to teclistamab discontinuation. The ORR was 73%, with 59% achieving ≥VGPR. No new safety signals were observed.
Likewise, the phase 2 OPTec study evaluated the use of prophylactic tocilizumab to reduce CRS in RRMM patients receiving teclistamab in an outpatient setting. In an initial cohort of 5 patients, no grade ≥3 CRS or neurotoxicity (ICANS) events were observed, indicating that prophylactic tocilizumab may mitigate the CRS risk associated with teclistamab. The study continues to enroll patients to further evaluate the safety and efficacy of this approach.
Results from the phase 3 MajesTEC-7 study in NDMM patients ineligible for or not intending to undergo ASCT showed a manageable safety profile and promising early efficacy for teclistamab in combination with daratumumab and lenalidomide. In 26 patients, 92.3% remained on treatment with a median follow-up of 10.2 months. TEAEs occurred in all patients, with 84.6% experiencing grade 3/4 TEAEs. Common grade 3/4 TEAEs included neutropenia (50%), febrile neutropenia (19.2%), infections (30.8%). CRS occurred in 61.5% of patients (all grade 1) and ICANS in 1 patient. The ORR was 92.3%, with 73.1% achieving ≥CR.
Data from the MagnetisMM-3 study indicate that monotherapy with the BCMA-targeting bsAb elranatamab provides deep, durable responses and favorable long-term survival in patients with heavily pretreated RRMM. In 123 BCMA-naïve patients, the ORR was 73.1% for those with 2–3 prior lines of therapy and 57.7% for those with ≥4 prior lines. The median PFS was not reached for patients with 2–3 prior lines of therapy and 13.3 months for those with ≥4 prior lines. The median OS was 24.6 months, with higher survival rates in patients with fewer prior therapies.
At ASCO, a “trials in progress” update was presented regarding the upcoming MagnetisMM-32 phase 3 study, which will compare the efficacy of elranatamab vs SoC in this patient population. Standard therapies are elotuzumab, pomalidomide, dexamethasone (EPd); pomalidomide, bortezomib, dexamethasone (PVd); and carfilzomib plus dexamethasone (Kd). The study population will include approximately 492 RRMM patients who have received prior anti-CD38 therapy. The primary end point will be PFS, and the key secondary end point will be OS.
Several investigational bsAbs are being evaluated in RRMM; studies were presented on cevostamab, ABBV-383, and linvoseltamab.
Cevostamab appears to have promising efficacy and a manageable safety profile in heavily pretreated RRMM patients. Cevostamab, an investigational bsAb targeting FcRH5 and CD3, was evaluated in the CAMMA 2 phase 1/2 study. Patients with RRMM were triple-class refractory and had received prior BCMA-targeted ADC or CAR T-cell therapy. In 21 patients, the ORR was 67%, with 38% achieving ≥VGPR. Patients previously treated with an ADC had an ORR of 60%; those with prior CAR T-cell therapy had an ORR of 73%. Grade 3–4 AEs occurred in 62% of patients, primarily neutropenia (38%), anemia (29%), and thrombocytopenia (24%). CRS occurred in 71% of patients, all grade 1–2.
ABBV-383, which targets BCMA × CD3, was evaluated in a phase 1 study of 220 RRMM patients who had received ≥3 prior lines of therapy. The dose of 60 mg every 4 weeks, considered optimal, demonstrated an ORR of 65% and a VGPR rate of 50%. CRS was reported in 43% of patients at this dose, with mostly grade 1 events. Grade 3/4 neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia were observed in 14%, 24%, and 10% of patients, respectively. Grade 3/4 infection occurred in 34%. The findings suggest that 60 mg Q4W ABBV-383 is effective and has a manageable safety profile, warranting further investigation.
Linvoseltamab, a BCMA × CD3 bsAb, also showed promising efficacy and a manageable safety profile in heavily pretreated RRMM patients. Patients treated with a 200-mg dose (N=117) showed an ORR of 71%, with 62% achieving a ≥VGPR and 46% achieving ≥CR. The median DOR was not reached, with a 12-month probability of maintaining response at 78% for all responders and 92% for those with ≥CR. Median PFS and OS were also not reached, with 12-month probabilities of 69% for PFS and 75% for OS. CRS was reported in 46% of patients, primarily grade 1–2. These results are also published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. The target action date for the FDA’s decision regarding linvoseltamab is August 22, 2024.
Though the ADC belantamab mafodotin (belamaf) was withdrawn in November 2022, it remains under investigation in two phase 3 studies (DREAMM-7 and DREAMM-8). Belamaf was withdrawn after it did not meet the primary end point of having a PFS superior to pomalidomide plus dexamethasone in the DREAMM-3 trial. However, the latest trial data show significant PFS benefits compared to standard treatments in RRMM patients. Based on these new positive trial data, belamaf will be submitted to the FDA for potential re-approval in the US market by the end of 2024.
Results were presented at EHA from the phase 3 DREAMM-7 study, which compared belamaf with daratumumab, both in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone (ie, BVd vs dara-Vd), in RRMM patients who had received ≥1 line of therapy. These results were also published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
In 494 patients, BVd significantly improved PFS with a median PFS of 36.6 months vs 13.4 months for DVd (HR 0.41, 95% CI 0.31–0.53, P<0.00001). The ORR was higher with BVd (82.7%) than with dara-Vd (71.3%). Median DOR was 35.6 months for BVd vs 17.8 months for dara-Vd. Grade 3/4 AEs were more frequent in the BVd arm (90%) than in the dara-Vd arm (67%), with serious AEs reported in 50% and 37% of patients, respectively. Ocular AEs were more frequent with BVd than dara-Vd (79% vs 29%). Grade ≥3 ocular AEs included blurred vision, dry eyes, and cataract. Significant changes in visual acuity occurred in 34%. These findings suggest that BVd may have potential for becoming a new SoC for RRMM, demonstrating significant efficacy and a manageable safety profile.
Another update from DREAMM-7, presented at ASCO, also suggested that BVd has potential in RRMM, particularly for patients with high-risk genomic alterations (those with ≥1 of t[4;14], t[14;16], or del[17p13]). In the intent-to-treat population of 494 patients, BVd showed greater benefit in lenalidomide-refractory patients (median PFS 25.0 vs 8.6 months, HR 0.31, 95% CI 0.19–0.48) and those with high-risk cytogenetics (median PFS 33.2 vs 10.5 months, HR 0.31, 95% CI 0.18–0.52).
Data from the phase 3 DREAMM-8 study support the combination of belamaf plus pomalidomide and dexamethasone (BPd) as another potential SoC, offering significant PFS benefits and deeper, more durable responses. The findings are also now published in the New England Journal of Medicine. The DREAMM-8 study compared BPd with pomalidomide, bortezomib, and dexamethasone (PVd) in RRMM patients who had received at least one prior line of therapy including lenalidomide. In 302 patients, BPd significantly improved PFS compared to PVd (NR vs 12.7 months, HR 0.52, 95% CI 0.37–0.73, P<0.001). The ORR was 77% with BPd vs 72% with PVd, and the rate of ≥CR was 40% vs 16%, respectively. AEs were manageable, with grade 3/4 ocular AEs (blurred vision, dry eye, and foreign body sensation) more frequent in the BPd arm (43% vs 2%).
Iberdomide was investigated as a part of a fully oral regimen in combination with the proteasome inhibitor ixazomib and dexamethasone in older patients. Another study in RRMM patients evaluated venetoclax or pomalidomide in combination with dexamethasone in patients with t(11;14), the most common chromosomal translocation in MM, associated with an overexpression of the BCL-2 protein.
Findings reported from the Phase 2 IFM study suggest that the all-oral iberdomide, ixazomib, and dexamethasone (I2D) regimen may be an effective and manageable treatment option for older MM patients at first relapse, including those refractory to prior lenalidomide and daratumumab therapy. In 70 patients with a median age of 76, the ORR was 64%, with 33% achieving a VGPR. The median PFS was 13 months, and the 12-month OS was 85% (95% CI 77%–95%). In patients who were refractory to both lenalidomide and daratumumab, the median PFS was 10 months. The regimen was well tolerated, with common grade 3–4 AEs being neutropenia (46%), thrombocytopenia (9%), and infection (8%).
A biomarker subgroup analysis of the phase 3 CANOVA study suggests that venetoclax-dexamethasone (VenDex) may be more effective than pomalidomide-dexamethasone (PomDex) in patients with high BCL2 gene expression or gain(1q). Patients with amp(1q) did not benefit from either treatment.
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Jointly provided by the MMRF and RedMedEd.
Support for this activity has been provided through sponsorships from Pfizer Inc, and Sanofi US and by an education grant from Janssen Biotech, Inc., administered by Janssen Scientific Affairs, LLC.
How did you get involved with the MMRF?
Team Papa JJ was formed nearly two years ago for the 2022 MMRF Walk/Run: Washington, DC. Douglas J.J. Peters, affectionately known as “Papa JJ” by his grandchildren, was a few months into his multiple myeloma diagnosis.
Why did you choose to participate in the MMRF Walk/Run?
Doug’s diagnosis forced him to step away from work and receive fatiguing treatments at home. He loved working with people and took pride in his fitness, so his newfound isolation and weakness proved to be an adjustment. When he became aware of the MMRF Walk/Run in the county he called home, he jumped at the chance to join.
He took to social media to make his multiple myeloma battle public while inviting others to join in, posting “My diagnosis and path to remission inspire me to do what I can to help others fight this cancer and to further accelerate efforts toward better treatments and a cure for multiple myeloma.”
The event offered the opportunity to: set a fitness goal, walking a 5k route under his own power after months of bed rest; connect with friends, family, colleagues, and loved ones he had not been able to see; and most importantly, join other patients to HELP FIGHT multiple myeloma TOGETHER!
Together at the 2022 and 2023 MMRF walks, Team Papa JJ raised over $45,000 and rallied over 175 walkers!
The MMRF walks gave Doug great joy, pride, and most of all, hope. He bonded with other patients who had been living with multiple myeloma for years or even decades. They eagerly showered him with encouragement and inspiration.
Unfortunately, Doug passed due to complications from his treatments a few days after Christmas this past year. He was surrounded by his family and loved ones.
The Spirit of Hope is given to “individuals/groups who inspire hope and show extraordinary commitment to the MMRF.” What does being given the award mean to you?
Team Papa JJ is honored to receive the Spirit of Hope award. Participating in the MMRF walk was Doug’s idea, and meeting other patients leading fulfilling lives while fighting myeloma gave him great hope. His choice to actively fight against the cancer with others instead of bemoaning his situation inspired donors and walkers alike to join the fight. We see the award as a public acknowledgment of the inspiring fight we saw in private, and we are grateful for the recognition. We hope teams and participants in this year’s Walk/Run are able to take advantage of the event’s unique opportunity to bring people together in the name of optimism, hope, and love to continue the fight against multiple myeloma.
How have you found perseverance in light of obstacles? Please share any stories that have given you strength.
Doug was a strong, competitive man by nature who thrived on challenge and helping people. Whatever he chose to do, he was going to give 110%! It was wonderful to see Doug combine his fighting spirit with his strong fundraising capability to fund the fight and find a cure. The endeavor gave him joy and purpose.
Doug knew he could only do so much to control the cancer, so he set out to control each day. When his body was at its weakest, his mind was at its strongest, and he remained driven. He learned to set smaller, more manageable goals he could complete each day. These included knocking five things off his “to do” list daily and beginning each day reading scripture during his 20-minute Peloton ride. Doug persevered through faith and bountiful HOPE, exhibiting humility, grit and grace throughout his battle. He vowed never to let multiple myeloma break his spirit. With hope, he fought to the end.
Does your team have a favorite mantra, quote, lyric that gives you strength?
Doug was a man of faith and an avid movie fan, making it fitting to include his favorite Bible verses alongside a quote from his favorite film.
“What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead” (James 2:14–17).
“What we do in life, echoes in eternity” (Maximus Decimus Meridius, Gladiator)
The Team Papa JJ In honor of Douglas J.J. Peters, MMRF 2024 Walk/Run: Washington, D.C. Spirit of Hope Honoree. Donate to Team Papa JJ as they accelerate a cure in Douglas’ memory.
This award is presented at every Walk/Run to a patient, caregiver, or family who inspires hope through their resilience, perseverance, and dedication to the MMRF and its mission.
Jennifer Campbell, Deceased Patient’s Wife
Torrance Campbell’s wife, Jennifer learned about the MMRF through her husband. He had met Kathy Giusti sometime before the first MMRF Chicago 5K Walk/Run in 2001. At the very first race Torrance participated with his colleague and friend from Baxter Credit Union (BCU).
Torrance Campbell (TC) was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 1997. He was just 38 years old. Like so many others, the colleagues didn’t know very much about multiple myeloma when they first heard the news. Nonetheless, BCU employees were determined to do their part to contribute to a cure. They formed the “BCU Team”. Shortly after Torrance’s passing in 2005, another multiple myeloma patient and close friend of BCU suggested “Spirit of Hope”. So, beginning in 2006, the BCU Team officially became “TC’s Spirit of Hope” to honor his memory. The team’s name embodies Torrance’s attitude in all things hopeful.
Whether in good health or bad, Torrance showed courage, empathy, deep faith, and an immense passion for life. He remained positive and certain that one day a cure would be found for multiple myeloma, and only humbly hoped it wouldn’t be too late for him.
“Our family has had to continue without Torrance’s daily presence. However, the foundation of faith, love and support he gave us will always keep him in our hearts,” said Jennifer Campbell.
Torrance’s “spirit of hope” and perseverance in light of obstacles he faced in his life was the start of the MMRF Spirit of Hope Award. Today, this award is presented to a person or team who inspires hope and shows extraordinary commitment to the MMRF. The MMRF has named over 300 Spirit of Hope Award Honorees since 2007 when the award was created in Torrance’s honor.
I was diagnosed with MGUS in June, 1993, but my primary care physician and my first three oncologists all led me to believe that I already had active multiple myeloma. Since I am a retired scientist, I began a continuing quest to educate myself about all things myeloma. That was greatly helped when I joined the North Texas Myeloma Support Group (NTMSG) in April 2004. This support group meets in Dallas monthly with patient sharing and guest speakers. In a very real sense, those support group members became a part of my extended family, and many are now good friends. I am now a technical resource to help find answers to questions from other support group members. My wife and I do not have any children. Our immediate and extended families all live at least 900 miles away. So, my Dallas support group is a significant part of my social family.
I became involved with the MMRF after discovering that they are a very good reputable resource for myeloma education. The more I learned, the more I was impressed with how professionally run, organized, and effective the MMRF seemed to be. I was especially impressed with the creation of the Multiple Myeloma Research Consortium (MMRC). The MMRC used critical business processes to accelerate the rapid initiation and completion of Phase 1 and 2 myeloma clinical trials by eliminating much of the prior competition to complete and publish research results individually. Each organization member specializes in what they do best and then shares the credit and quicker publication of results.
I was also very impressed with the MMRF CoMMpass study. It focused on mapping the genomic landscape of myeloma to understand patient subtypes and risk stratification and identify new targets. These results are available in the public domain for all myeloma researchers. It was the first study to identify twelve subtypes for myeloma related back to DNA alterations. This identified actionable DNA alterations for personalized treatment that became available in the MMRF MyDRUG clinical trial.
I was also impressed with the goals of the MMRF CureCloud study. This was one of the largest longitudinal data sets to collect myeloma patient information to help direct future myeloma research efforts. I participated in this CureCloud project.
I am a retired scientist formerly employed by a Johnson & Johnson company that manufactured hospital laboratory testing materials and human injectable products (derived from human blood). Therefore, I know the importance of clinical trial participation to get new myeloma treatments evaluated and FDA approved. For this reason, I have already participated in three clinical trials to do my part to help this process.
I feel that the MMRF does a particularly good job of efficiently using donated funds to produce very significant myeloma research knowledge results that are then put to practical use. A NTMSG member and friend, Patrick Beal, began organizing and captaining a team for the yearly MMRF Dallas Walk/Run fundraisers. I have always joined that MMRF fundraising team to support Patrick and that effort. For that reason, I consider this Spirit of Hope award to be a team effort. I give the credit to our North Texas Myeloma Support Group (NTMSG) MMRF 5K Walk/Run yearly fundraising teams. We tend to come in second or third most years in our fundraising success against much larger teams and organizations. This Spirit of Hope award acknowledges our team accomplishments in fundraising for such a worthwhile cause.
My personal philosophy for managing my myeloma mandates having hope, sharing the hope, and continuing education. Whatever happens, happens for a reason. Always remain positive about your life.
I take a lot of inspiration from Jim Valvano’s 3/4/1993 ESPY speech: “Cancer can take away all of my physical abilities. It cannot touch my mind, it cannot touch my heart, and it cannot touch my soul.” Valvano was an American basketball player, coach, and broadcaster. The motto for the Jimmy V Foundation for cancer research is “Don’t give up! Don’t ever give up!”
The MMRF is delighted to recognize Dennis McClure as the MMRF 2024 Walk/Run: Dallas Spirit of Hope Honoree. We encourage you to donate to his team the North Texas Myeloma Support Group (NTMSG)
This award is presented at every Walk/Run to a patient, caregiver, or family who inspires hope through their resilience, perseverance, and dedication to the MMRF and its mission.
How did your team get involved with the MMRF?
My brother Ophire was 35 years old when he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in September 2008. He was in contact with Kathy Giusti and found out about the 2016 MMRF Walk/Run 5K in Boca Raton. He fought long and hard for eleven years, flying back and forth to NY for treatment. He endured endless rounds of chemo, radiation, three stem cell transplants, six clinical trials, eight different drugs, and emergency spinal cord compression surgery.
Why did your team choose to participate in the MMRF Walk/Run?
Ophire decided to become a “patient activist” to help advance the development of new drugs brought to market. He created No Fear Warrior to inspire hope and demonstrate the resilience of those who are alive and fighting MM. A large group of friends and family came out year after year to run and walk alongside him while he fought for his life. Ophire passed away surrounded by the love from his family and friends in January 2020 at 46 years old. Ophire didn’t die from myeloma; he died battling against myeloma. No Fear Warrior has continued to fundraise to keep his memory alive.
The Spirit of Hope is given to “individuals/groups who inspire hope and show extraordinary commitment to the MMRF.” What does being given the award mean to you and your team?
It is an honor for Ophire/No Fear Warrior to be recognized with this award. Receiving this award means that while Ophire is not with us, his spirit and memory lives on. We hope to carry the torch of inspiration and will continue to fight for a cure in our lifetime!
How has your team found perseverance in light of obstacles? Please share any stories that have given you strength.
God gives his toughest battles to his strongest warriors. Ophire was the most courageous, brave, man that I knew – he was a warrior that never gave up. He was an inspiration and touched so many lives with his positive attitude and zest for life. He had a 1000-watt smile that could light up a room. He was a respected leader in his profession and also had the ability to be your friend, which is very hard to do. In all my life, I’ve never heard anyone speak badly about Ophire. Everyone who knew him loved him.
Does your team have a favorite mantra, quote, lyric that gives you strength?
Ophire’s signature in his email was initially “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference” and later “Life is good.” His Facebook cover had the quote “Never, never, never give up” by Winston Churchill.
Anything to Add?
We’re looking forward to meeting our family in Tampa this November to walk in Ophire’s memory and support the MMRF!
The MMRF is delighted to recognize Team No Fear Warrior In honor of Ophire Jericho as the MMRF Spirit of Hope Honoree at the 2024 MMRF Team for Cures: Tampa Walk/Run. Donate to their team today to accelerate a cure!
This award is presented at every Walk/Run to a patient, caregiver, or family who inspires hope through their resilience, perseverance, and dedication to the MMRF and its mission.
How did your team get involved with the MMRF?
I was diagnosed in July 2022 with multiple myeloma, and it was a shock to everyone. I had been having some back pain that was worsening, and I finally ended up in the emergency room. That evening in the ER after hearing this diagnosis, I was admitted and began the fight for my life. After surgery, radiation and starting chemo, I was discharged in August 2022, and I came across MMRF in the pile of resources given to me. I went online to check out their work and immediately wanted to be a part of their activities. Our family and friends signed up for the walk, and our team, the Myelominators, was able to raise over $7,000. We wanted our name to be somewhat lighthearted but reflect our commitment that myeloma cells, or Myelomans as we were calling them, must DIE! It was a bite off of The Terminator movie, which involved a lot of killing—in our case, we wanted all myeloma cells to be annihilated!
Why did your team choose to participate in the MMRF Walk/Run?
This is somewhat addressed in the question above, but team members wanted to show support for me and our family after hearing about my diagnosis. We had colleagues, friends, and family join us to show that I wasn’t alone—that they cared about my family and were sending their positive thoughts to me as I was fighting this cancer. Team members also wanted to raise money for this important cause, not just for me, but for all the families affected by MM. The new treatments mean life or death for so many patients, and anything we can do to advance this cause must be done.
The Spirit of Hope is given to “individuals/groups who inspire hope and show extraordinary commitment to the MMRF.” What does being given the award mean to you and your team?
On a personal level, this award has given me a tremendous psychological boost. Five months after diagnosis, I received a stem cell transplant in December 2022, and it seemed to be a success. I finally had the headspace to further educate myself about this disease. During this time, I watched MMRF webinars and read articles. Despite being in remission (or so I thought!), I wanted to continue to support MMRF in their efforts to fund myeloma research. I read so much about the advances in long-term outcomes and improved quality of life for MM patients due to the advances in medications, treatments, and so forth, all of which came from research activities that MMRF funds. Therefore, I gathered friends and family again for the 2023 MMRF Walk. In addition, my husband (and team member), Vik, had decided to set a goal of participating in Moving Mountains for Multiple Myeloma in 2025. Moving Mountains required a higher financial commitment, and we were ready to take that next step to an organization that was dear to our hearts.
Coincidentally, I first heard of Dr Amrita Krishnan’s name from a MMRF patient webinar in the summer of 2023. She is a world-renowned expert on relapsed/refractory MM at City of Hope. As fate would have it, I relapsed in November 2023, and after treatment from December to February 2024, I was referred to Dr. Krishnan for treatment options. Dr. Krishnan recommended CAR-T therapy, and I’m scheduled for this treatment in May 2024. I can firmly say that through their fundraising activities and patient education resources, MMRF has played a meaningful role in guiding my MM journey, especially during this new phase of relapse. I tell all my friends, CAR-T with Carvykti wasn’t even an option in 2022 when I was diagnosed—it was only through research, clinical trials, advocacy with organizations such as MMRF and researchers such as Dr Krishnan that this advance was pushed through and is now available to patients like myself.
How has your team found perseverance in light of obstacles? Please share any stories that have given you strength.
Persevering is a true challenge. It takes active thought and energy. After discovering my relapse in December 2023, we were all devastated. We were just barely recovering from my diagnosis the year prior. I hadn’t even been in remission for a year. This time, the physical limitations and pain experienced were very significant. The feeling of being overwhelmed was greater than ever because we were monitoring my cancer with labs, and it had quietly converted to a non-secretory form of melanoma, so we had no idea it was back until all the physical symptoms had manifested.
We took strength in our family, friends, and supporters who kept pouring in. Even people we didn’t know or have a relationship with were offering to help. The sense of humanity, compassion, and empathy of so many around us—that brought us tremendous strength. It kept us going day after day.
For me, I meditated on the workings of the universal consciousness. I remember the words of Abraham Lincoln: “The best way to predict the future, is to create it.” As a family, we were determined—I would not be a “statistic.” I was creating my outcome. In fact, from a quantum consciousness perspective, I was already healed and cancer free. Embedding these ideologies in my mind, I took one step at a time, one day at a time. This journey is actually filled with love, laughter, joy, and immense pain. Yet, I will persevere. I’m just going through the process—biding time until final success is achieved and I am myeloma free.
From my sister-in-law, Divya, “You are always authentic and real. The strength you’ve demonstrated in these past two years gives me confidence that I can also approach difficult situations with confidence. You are a symbol of toughness beyond many men and women.”
From my brother- and sister-in-law, “Archana has been a tremendous inspiration to us for her unwavering positive attitude through this. She’s a fighter and a winner, and it’s been a privilege to see her triumphs. Keep up the fight; we’re in your corner. Always!”
From a friend (J.R.R. Tolkien), “It’s not the strength of the body that counts, but the strength of the spirit.”
Does your team have a favorite mantra, quote, lyric that gives you strength?
Fight to Win! FTW!
The MMRF is delighted to recognize Archana More Sharma as the MMRF Spirit of Hope Honoree at the 2024 MMRF Team for Cures: Los Angeles Walk/Run. Donate to “The Myelominators” today to accelerate a cure!
This award is presented at every Walk/Run to a patient, caregiver, or family who inspires hope through their resilience, perseverance, and dedication to the MMRF and its mission.
I’m extremely flattered by being the individual chosen to receive this year’s MMRF Spirit of Hope Award for the Twin Cities 5K Walk/Run fundraising event. But unfortunately, it’s also partly the result of being a multiple myeloma patient, which means I have a cancer that currently does not have a cure. And that is by far the number one reason I’m passionate about doing my part to help find a cure for this disease. But it’s not just about me—it’s about all the other myeloma patients and caregivers I read about, listen to through Patient Webinars, and see at Lake Phalen every year doing everything they can to help find a cure for us patients, so we and future myeloma patients can live a full life with all those individuals who love us so much.
A few other organizations are out there that are also working to find a cure for myeloma. So that begs the question: Why did I choose the MMRF as the organization I wanted to put my time and energy behind? To determine that, I asked myself a pretty simple question: What is the best possible way to find a cure for myeloma? I believe the answer is through research. When I looked at the track record of the various organizations, two stood out to me because of the number of years they’ve been in existence, and they both were started by individuals who were directly impacted by myeloma. Two criteria separate the MMRF from all the others: over 90% of the funds it raises go directly toward research, and it has a major fundraising event right in my backyard. Bingo! We have a winner! Just look at the amount of money the MMRF has given to date toward research, over $600 million! Yes, over $600 million dedicated directly to finding a cure for myeloma. All of us need to do our part in helping to generate more funding for research, so we have a chance to win our fight to live and realize the love of all our family members and friends who have been there for us because they want us to live.
What I admire the most are those family members and friends that have continued to help raise money for research, in spite of the fact that their loved ones that they fought for fell short of winning their battles. These are the ones who most emulate what the Spirit of Hope stands for, and they are the true winners of this award. Last year four teams raised over $10,000 for the 5K Walk/Run fundraising event, and my team was one of them. But get this, the other three teams raised their donations in remembrance of loved ones who used to stand with us Living Proof members in years gone by now, and those teams continue to act because of what those people meant to them, and don’t want our caregivers to have the same results as they did.
HOPE. It’s a word that carries a heavy load. It’s also a word that I believe in. I do have hope. When I was first diagnosed back on January 17, 2012, I was told I would be lucky to live a year and a half. I’ve relapsed two times and have participated in two clinical trials. Twelve and a half years later, I’m still here. Why? I have a lot of faith and believe that God wants me to still be here for a reason that only He knows. In addition, since I was first diagnosed, eleven new forms of treatment have been approved by the FDA, I’m currently on one of them (daratumumab or Darzalex) for maintenance. A whole new field of treatments is coming on the scene and is starting to explode with different variations. I’m talking about immunotherapy, which includes CAR-T therapy and bi-specific therapies. The results are extremely promising. And that means HOPE—hope that someday soon, we’ll yes, we’ll find a cure. Join me and my team, The Mike Schulz Marchers, at this year’s Twin Cities 5K Walk/Run Fundraising event. Let’s give the Living Proof photo a whole new meaning.
Sincerely,
Mike Schulz
The MMRF is delighted to recognize Mike Schulz as the MMRF Spirit of Hope Honoree at the 2024 MMRF Team for Cures: Twin Cities Walk/Run. Donate to his fundraising page to accelerate a cure today!
This award is presented at every Walk/Run to a patient, caregiver, or family who inspires hope through their resilience, perseverance, and dedication to the MMRF and its mission.
