Despite advancements in understanding the pathophysiology of Multiple Myeloma (MM), the cause of rapid progressing disease in a subset of patients is still unclear. MM’s progression is facilitated by complex interactions with the surrounding bone marrow (BM) cells, forming a microenvironment that supports tumor growth and drug resistance. Understanding the immune microenvironment is key to identifying factors that promote rapid progression of MM. To accomplish this, we performed a multi-center single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) study on 102,207 cells from 48 CD138– BM samples collected at the time of disease diagnosis from 18 patients with either rapid progressing (progression-free survival (PFS) < 18 months) or non-progressing (PFS > 4 years) disease. Comparative analysis of data from three centers demonstrated similar transcriptome profiles and cell type distributions, indicating subtle technical variation in scRNA-seq, opening avenues for an expanded multicenter trial. Rapid progressors depicted significantly higher enrichment of GZMK+ and TIGIT+ exhausted CD8+ T-cells (P = 0.022) along with decreased expression of cytolytic markers (PRF1, GZMB, GNLY). We also observed a significantly higher enrichment of M2 tolerogenic macrophages in rapid progressors and activation of pro-proliferative signaling pathways, such as BAFF, CCL, and IL16. On the other hand, non-progressive patients depicted higher enrichment for immature B Cells (i.e., Pre/Pro B cells), with elevated expression for markers of B cell development (IGLL1, SOX4, DNTT). This multi-center study identifies the enrichment of various pro-tumorigenic cell populations and pathways in those with rapid progressing disease and further validates the robustness of scRNA-seq data generated at different study centers.
I was looking to connect with others with multiple myeloma, and after doing extensive research, I found MMRF.
Five months after being a recipient of an autologous stem cell transplant at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center in Miami, I wanted to meet and share my experience with others and, as an added benefit, raise funds and give back to the myeloma community.
By receiving this award, my hope is that my story can be inspirational to newly diagnosed and existing patients.
Upon receiving my diagnosis in March 2019, I had never heard of or knew anyone with MM. One year later, my father was also diagnosed with MM. After the initial shock and the support of my family, friends, and amazing and caring team of physicians, I have essentially resumed my normal life. I never let the diagnosis nor the transplant change my positive outlook.
In the end, no matter the challenges life throws at you, it is always about moving forward. And as my husband repeatedly reminds me, “The best way out is always the way through.”
The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation is delighted to recognize Tracy Miller as the MMRF Spirit of Hope Honoree at the 2023 MMRF Team for Cures: South Florida Walk/Run.
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. Donate to Tracy Miller’s “Team Tracy” 2023 Walk/Run fundraising page to accelerate a cure today!
On 9/11/2001, I was working as an FBI Special Agent when the horrific terrorist attack on U.S. soil occurred, shocking the world. I, along with hundreds of other first responders, was deployed to the Pentagon to search for and collect evidence, human remains, and personal effects in a smoldering and dangerous environment with minimal protective equipment, especially during the first several days. Sixteen years later, in January 2017, as a result of being exposed to toxic fumes at that site, I was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma and related kidney failure. Chemotherapy and dialysis were begun within weeks of each other, and though the cancer responded well, the kidneys did not recover, and I endured dialysis for 4 years until receiving a kidney transplant in January 2021, thanks to my own persistence and a dear and selfless college friend who donated her kidney so I could receive one.
Shortly after the kidney transplant, as my overall health and energy level improved, I began to research ways to inspire myself to improve my fitness, bring awareness to this cancer and the other 9/11 illnesses, and to contribute to finding a cure. I discovered the MMRF and Moving Mountains for Multiple Myeloma (MM4MM) events and have since participated virtually in the MMRF 2021 and 2022 Washington, DC Walk/Run. I am also planning to apply for a MM4MM trekking event as soon as the right opportunity presents itself.
I chose to participate in the MMRF Walk/Run events in 2021 and 2022 for several reasons. First and foremost, it was to inspire and demonstrate the resilience of those who are alive and fighting Multiple Myeloma and, frankly, to inspire anyone just having a bad day. I see exercise and outdoor activities as being an integral part of good physical and mental health and an especially good benefit to anyone who is facing a crisis. These events are an opportunity to share that and encourage others to take part as well.
Fundraising to find a cure for Multiple Myeloma also adds a measure of control over having a currently incurable and unpredictable illness. Living every day, knowing this cancer will likely come back, is stressful, so I try my best to live every day to the fullest. I have hope that if the cancer returns, there will be a cure, and most importantly, maybe I will have had something to do with finding that cure.
I do these and other charity events in memory and honor of the FBI employees and so many others who continue to fight or who have died from serious illnesses as a result of being exposed to the toxic environment at the 9/11 crash and processing sites, with special honor to those with Multiple Myeloma.
The Multiple Myeloma Support Group to which I belong has so many members fighting this complex illness in various stages. Participation in this charity is also a celebration of their great collective life-saving knowledge, encouragement, perseverance, and belief that a cure will be found during our lifetimes.
Since recovering from the kidney transplant in 2021, I have done numerous presentations and news interviews telling my story, including the stories of two other FBI Agents who lost their battles to Multiple Myeloma (also due to 9/11) before I was even diagnosed, to bring awareness to the 9/11 illnesses. To be honest, public speaking does not come naturally to me, but I feel compelled to “put myself out there” to remember the many thousands of 9/11 first responders and others who have died or who are currently suffering from rare, complicated, painful, and sometimes numerous illnesses because of their service or because of where they lived and worked during the months following that horrific day. Some are just being diagnosed, and many have yet to be diagnosed. Statistics indicate that many more people have died from 9/11 related illnesses to date than were killed on that one day (not to minimize those who died that day at all), and that only counts the people who have reported their illnesses. There are so many more who are sick and will become sick who don’t know and may never know that it is because of 9/11.
In 2021, I committed myself to simply being able to complete the MMRF Walk/Run at a satisfactory pace for someone in remission from Multiple Myeloma who had had a kidney transplant 9 months prior! In 2022, I committed to a goal of not only improving my time but also to raise $3,500 for the MMRF. The response I received from those I reached out to was amazing, unexpected, and overwhelming! In the end, my fundraising goal was not only surpassed but almost doubled. The MMRF is the premier nonprofit organization in the world tasked with researching and finding a cure for this complex cancer. I am proud and thrilled to be able to continue to contribute to its cutting edge work this year in furtherance of new treatment therapies and, ultimately, “accelerating a cure for each and every multiple myeloma patient.”
The honor of receiving the MMRF Spirit of Hope award in 2023 truly encompasses everything, and more, that I set out to do after my kidney transplant – to inspire others fighting this illness, to contribute to finding a cure, and to allow me the opportunity of reaching thousands of people nationwide with a message of hope and remembrance for all the victims of the 9/11 related cancers and other illnesses. This award is important to me, but it is not about me. It is dedicated to all whose health was impacted by 9/11.
Our children, who were 9 and 13 when I was diagnosed, have been the main inspiration for me to survive. I strive to set an example for them, teaching them the benefits of perseverance, faithfulness, strength, and positivity in the face of unimaginable health or other challenges.
Additionally, not long after I was diagnosed, I became friends with the wives of two FBI Agents who had already passed from Multiple Myeloma due to 9/11. I found their strength, faith and families to be extraordinary. Their stories have inspired me to live the best life I can and to make a positive difference in the world, in honor of their lives so well lived.
Lastly, I have many family members and friends from church, work, and from throughout my life, to include the special friend who donated her kidney for me, who have lifted me up and supported our family when we were in need. Those who gave me rides, attended medical appointments with me, provided meals when I was too tired to cook, and offered special prayers before the most critical tests and procedures inspired me to persevere through all the medical appointments, bone marrow biopsies, dialysis, multiple hospitalizations, physical pain and discomfort, and mental anguish over the uncertainly of my future. I am grateful for my faith in God which has undergirded me during the most difficult times and daily through all of life’s ups and downs.
To be honest, “perseverance” and “persistence” have become my favorite words, and the Serenity Prayer, my favorite prayer. I have many favorite inspirational books and extensive favorite playlists of music that I listen to when exercising, when I need to be energized, or even when I need to relax. My favorite lyrics change from day-to-day depending on my mood. At the moment of writing this, I am thinking that “I Will Not Go Quietly.”
The most important things that I have learned since being diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma in January 2017, as posted by me on social media circa February 2022, are:
The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation is delighted to recognize Lauren Schuler as the MMRF Spirit of Hope Honoree at the 2023 MMRF Team for Cures: Washington, D.C. Walk/Run.
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. Donate to Lauren Schuler’s 2023 Walk/Run fundraising page to accelerate a cure today!
How did you get involved with the MMRF?
In late 2020, I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. A little over a year later, my daughter discovered the MMRF and told me about the 5K it offered in Dallas. My first thought was, “I’m all in!” The very next week I had an appointment with Dr. Anderson at UTSW, where he confirmed I was in molecular remission (YAHOO!). We then saw brochures on the counter about the MMRF. I had no clue Dr. Anderson was so involved; I have since attended webinars and patient summits where he has spoken/presented.
Why did you choose to participate in the MMRF Walk/Run?
My daughter, Whitney, and I have always enjoyed sharing exercise stories and participating in a lot of the same types of exercise. When we saw this event, we knew with certainty we could do it together and include lots of friends and family in hopes to raise more awareness of Multiple Myeloma and, further, find a cure!
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?
Hope has always come easy to me with Jesus in my life, but being diagnosed with cancer was something totally different and much unexpected. I believe because of my hope, I have been given the opportunity to positively influence others walking a similar path. I feel incredibly honored to receive the Spirit of Hope award.
How have you found perseverance in light of obstacles? Please share any stories that have given you strength.
Having the Caring Bridge site during the thick of my journey was so valuable. It allowed us to keep all friends and family in the loop of what was going on. I had so many people praying for me, and I know God answered so many prayers on my behalf. Everything about my journey turns back to Christ. In the very beginning, when I woke up from my first surgery in 2020, God said to me, “You are healed.” Throughout every obstacle that comes my way, I find perseverance in my relationship with Christ and the unlimited support from my caregivers and family.
Do you have a favorite mantra, quote, lyric that gives you strength?
First off, you must know that I come from a cheerleading background. One day very early in my diagnosis, before any treatment had even begun, I was out for a walk in my neighborhood, and it came to me as clear as day: “GO-FIGHT-WIN” (GFW). At that moment, I’m pretty sure I yelled it out loud (lol). I came home and shared this with my husband; he loved it. I then later called my three daughters and shared the story with them, letting them know this was my new “mantra.” A few days later, I woke up and the first words that came to mind were “LET THE BATTLE BEGIN.” Then, I used #PhilWickham #BattleBelongs; from there, it progressed to “#GFW G-LO” (G-Lo = My new Grandma name). Ephesians 3:20 has been a bible verse that has given me strength from day one: “Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish INFINITELY more than we might ask or think.” Talk about powerful!
The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation is delighted to recognize Lora Clancy as the MMRF Spirit of Hope Honoree at the 2023 MMRF Team for Cures: Dallas Walk/Run.
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. Donate to Lora Clancy’s “#GFV G-LO” 2023 Walk/Run fundraising page to accelerate a cure today!
Todd was diagnosed with MGUS (monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance) in June, 2016. Knowing an eventual diagnosis of multiple myeloma was potentially on the horizon, we took an active interest in learning all we could about what we might be facing, treatments, and ongoing lifestyle changes.
This was a celebration of overcoming a successful yet challenging treatment. We were excited to raise money to help others facing the same diagnosis. Our hope is that any funds raised will help make discovery and subsequent treatment easier, effective, and more efficient.
It means the world. Fundraising for and participating in the walk was one of the highlights of our year. Those who couldn’t attend raised money. Those who could celebrated our victory as a family. Sharing our story like this will hopefully give others strength as they begin or sustain their journey. We hope that we can provide every single patient with the support we received, either through fundraising, kind thoughts, or continued in-person meetings, such as MMRF fundraisers.
Every single doctor, nurse, aide, phlebotomist, receptionist, fundraiser, and caregiver we met was extremely invested in my health as a patient and success as a survivor. How could I not fight with a support group like that?
“The only way out is through.” We said that every day—through the pain, the triumphs, the fevers, the isolation periods, through every successful meeting with our team. Through the good and the bad, we knew the only way to get into remission was by going through the full treatment process. Knowing there were no shortcuts required tenacity and strength as a family as we conquered every obstacle and reached every milestone.
In the movie Apollo 13, when everything is at its most dark, one of the characters expresses doubt about survival. NASA Flight Director Gene Kranz (played by Ed Harris) turns to the actor and says, “With all due respect, sir, I believe this is gonna be our finest hour.” For all of you patients, friends, family, and caregivers, this is your finest hour.
The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation is delighted to recognize Todd Phillips as the MMRF Spirit of Hope Honoree at the 2023 MMRF Team for Cures: Charlotte Walk/Run.
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. Donate to Todd Phillips’ “Go Team Phillips” 2023 Walk/Run fundraising page to accelerate a cure today!
I first became involved with the MMRF in the spring of 2002 shortly after I was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma. My amazing oncologist and friend Dr. Michael Bar suggested I contact Kathy Giusti since we seemed to have a lot in common, besides MM. I was a 46-year-old executive at IBM at the time working in business development and marketing, so we had similar professional backgrounds. In 2002, the MMRF was a very small team with big plans working out of a small office in New Canaan. My husband Ted and I met with Kathy and her team and were immediately impressed by their goals and wanted to help however we could. Ted helped with various fundraising research programs, and I got involved with various events—the Gala and the Walk/Runs. Kathy also referred me to a local MM support group facilitated by two gentlemen who also had MM. It was there that I found a home and so much support. After being active with the group for a few years, both men unfortunately passed away, and I was asked by them before they passed to keep the group going. Ken Makowka and his wife, Mary, and Ted and I took over the group and grew it over the years. Ken and Mary retired after a couple of years, so Ted and I have been facilitating it for more than 13 years. We are dedicated to fostering patient and caregiver education and helping patients understand their disease and how best to advocate for themselves. The pandemic has certainly been challenging, but we continue to meet via ZOOM every month. It has worked out well for us.
Over the years, I have met many inspiring people who have helped me grow as a person living with an incurable disease. I have made many very close friends who unfortunately did not have the good fortune I have had, but we have shared many special times together. I’ve seen the best and worst in people. My favorite saying is “we rise by lifting others.” I know that I am so much stronger because of the strength and love of those I’ve been surrounded by. I have an amazing family who have been with me every step of the way.
I am very honored to be chosen for this recognition.
The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation is delighted to recognize Gerrianne Delaney as the MMRF Spirit of Hope Honoree at the 2023 MMRF Team for Cures: Norwalk Walk/Run.
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. Donate to Gerrianne Delaney’s “Ger’s Giants” 2023 Walk/Run fundraising page to accelerate a cure today!
How did you get involved with the MMRF?
Following my diagnosis in 2015, my medical team suggested I research various myeloma groups to learn more about the disease, treatment, and advances in the field of multiple myeloma. My family and I felt a connection with the MMRF and its mission statement as well as its work in advocacy and clinical trials.
Why did you choose to participate in the MMRF Walk/Run?
My family participated in our first walk in April 2016. We were excited to throw our support behind an organization we believed in, but we wanted to experience the walk for ourselves before creating a team. We were so inspired by all the teams, the various participants, the speakers, and the MMRF representatives that we created Team Step 2 Success the following year. We’ve been part of this event ever since.
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 Step 2 Success consists of family, friends, and other multiple myeloma patients, all of whom are enthusiastic supporters of the MMRF. We know several multiple myeloma patients, all in various stages of this disease, each experiencing their own symptoms and each undergoing treatment geared to the specifics of their disease. And we know several others who have succumbed to myeloma. Team Step 2 Success is committed to raising funds and awareness to help all inflicted with multiple myeloma. We are honored and humbled to be recognized by the MMRF.
How have you found perseverance in light of obstacles? Please share any stories that have given you strength.
In times of difficulty, I turn to my husband Steven, my family and friends, my medical team, and my faith. The people in my life give me the support and encouragement I need. My faith provides the peace and solace to confront each obstacle.
Do you have a favorite mantra, quote, lyric that gives you strength?
Let Go, Let God.
The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation is delighted to recognize Nancy Albanese as the MMRF Spirit of Hope Honoree at the 2023 MMRF Team for Cures: Boston Walk/Run.
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. Donate to Nancy Albanese’s “Step 2 Success” 2023 Walk/Run fundraising page to accelerate a cure today!
My fight started on August 6, 2020. Life as I knew it would never be the same. Over 80 percent of my bone marrow was replaced by cancerous plasma cells. My diagnosis was multiple myeloma.
I am a Family Physician, practicing now for over 25 years. My perspective and understanding of what was about to happen was paralyzing. The second week of chemotherapy, I was hospitalized. The pain was almost unbearable. Mentally, I began to shut down. It became difficult to receive any of the information I was given. The irony was that everyone assumed I already knew it all. “She is a doctor you know.” Yes, but now I’m the patient.
At that point I felt numb. What was my purpose? Why was this happening to me? I know there is NO cure. So, what’s the point? The day my triple lumen catheter was placed in the right side of my chest for my first stem cell transplant was one of the lowest points for me. Why would I knowingly allow the few normal cells in my bone marrow to be destroyed? Who does that? My husband is my rock. He gently told me that this is our biggest battle, and I need to put on my armor and use the weapons that I have been blessed to have. God, my family, friends, doctors, nurses, caregivers, medications, the stem cell transplant, and yes, that catheter that dangled out of the right side of my chest are all parts of my armor. My new perspective is that procedures, no matter how painful, medications, no matter how many times a day I have to take them, and appointments, no matter how many are scheduled, are all part of my defense. All of these together will help me win the war. There is NO time to fear. I am on the battlefield.
Every day as I got out of the car to go in for therapy after my stem cell transplants, my husband would hum the theme song from Rocky. Walking into the building, I would raise my fist in the air as he hummed Rocky. The days that I was too weak to raise my fist, he would do it for me—warriors, more than conquerors. It’s time to fight. This reminded me of Moses in Exodus 17:11-13.
Learning more about this disease is also a part of my armor.
This is why I became involved with MMRF. MMRF has provided knowledge, support, strength, and opportunity. The Walk/Run was an opportunity for me to prove to myself that despite all, I am still strong. I prepared for months for this race. It felt like Christmas to me. There were so many friends and family that were there as support—such a joyful and humbling experience. The love was so strong it was palpable. This award symbolizes strength, opportunity, and most of all, HOPE. I am praying for the day there will be a cure for multiple myeloma.
To God, my family, friends, caregivers, the Kaiser family, and the illustrious women of Alpha Kappa Alpha Inc, Psi Omega Omega chapter, thank you for allowing me to be vulnerable but protected without judgment and with so much compassion. This disease will not define me. I Am Hope!!!
The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation is delighted to recognize Dr. Hope Buchanan-Fields as the MMRF Spirit of Hope Honoree at the 2023 MMRF Team for Cures: Atlanta Walk/Run.
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. Donate to Dr. Hope Buchanan-Fields’ “Dash of Hope” 2023 Walk/Run fundraising page to accelerate a cure today!
After a couple of years as the chief operating officer of the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF), Southport’s Andreini was named president and CEO in 2021, leading the prominent cancer research organization in its mission of accelerating the quest to find a cure for all patients with the rare blood cancer…
Initially, we used my husband’s diagnosis to show our support as we navigated this journey and joined a new “club” we really didn’t want to be a part of.
“JP Strong” is a phrase my children and I coined after my husband, JP, received a diagnosis of multiple myeloma in 2014. Initially, we used it to show our support as we navigated this journey and joined a new “club” we really didn’t want to be a part of.
JP got his diagnosis in April of that year and, immediately, he wanted to get involved in figuring out how to best manage his disease while remaining optimistic. A friend told him about the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) and an upcoming 5K run in a neighboring town. We registered and set our fundraising goal and within a few days, he’d tripled his goal. Our friends and family all came out that day to support JP and it was an incredibly positive yet emotional experience. It gave him the boost he needed to know that with his positive mindset, paired with the efforts of the MMRF, he could do this.
