When Paul received his multiple myeloma diagnosis, he decided right away not to get lost down a rabbit hole of google searches. Instead, he turned to a friend who had received the same diagnosis 10 years prior and asked for advice. It was his friend who instructed him to use the MMRF for all research and questions.
In the year since his own diagnosis, Paul has found the MMRF to be an invaluable resource. His appreciation for the MMRF’s work led him to participate in his first MMRF Philadelphia 5K in 2021. He said, “When I realized the huge difference that the MMRF has made in the treatment of MM, I wanted to get involved and help in some way get closer to a cure! This organization has made such an impact in the lives of so many, and I want to be a part of that.”
Paul’s wife and daughter took the reins in launching ‘Team Lucas: Straight Outta Chemo’ for the Philadelphia 5K, and together the family rallied an incredible team in support of the MMRF. All the people in Paul’s corner this past year have been a source of strength. “I find strength in those around me. My family received so much support over the past year and I did not want to let anyone down. I also would not allow cancer to define me. I never wanted anyone to think cancer was getting the better of me,” Paul said.
Overall, Paul works to keep a positive outlook and never asks “why me.” He said, “I live by the mantra that someone, somewhere has it worse than me. It puts things in perspective.” Unfortunately for Paul and his family, his mother-in-law was also battling cancer at the time of his diagnosis. Paul said, “She passed away in November 2021, but I was always in awe of how she handled the daily challenges up until her passing.” Thankful for the support of so many people in his life, Paul most importantly wanted to recognize his wife, Jill, saying, “She is a pillar of strength and an amazing source of physical and emotional support. She was already going through such a tough time with her mother when I was diagnosed and I saw how my situation weighed on her, however, she never showed any weakness as she cared for both of us. Jill has always been a tremendous role model for our kids and the past year only reinforced what an amazing person she is.” Team Lucas looks forward to showing up in a big way again at this year’s Philadelphia 5K, with Paul honored to receive the Spirit of Hope Award. He said, “While it’s nice to be recognized, there are probably others more deserving. We are lucky to have a tremendous support system through this experience. I have been surrounded by so many people willing to help that it puts me in a better position to help those who are going through a challenging experience like mine.”
Paul has touched the myeloma community with his strength, incredible kindness, and embodiment of hope. The MMRF works tirelessly to accelerate a cure to extend the lives of patients like Paul and is proud to honor him as the 2022 recipient of the MMRF Philadelphia Spirit of Hope award.
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The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation is delighted to recognize Paul Lucas as the MMRF Spirit of Hope Honoree at the 2022 MMRF Team for Cures: Philadelphia 5K Walk/Run. This award is presented at every 5K Walk/Run to a patient, caregiver, or family who inspires hope through their resilience, perseverance, and dedication to the MMRF and its mission.
