Gather Community Event: Blood Cancer and Young Adulthood – NOT RECORDED
This event will not be recorded. We encourage you to attend live.
This Gather Community Event is designed for individuals who were diagnosed with a blood cancer at a younger age and are looking to connect with others who understand the unique challenges that can come with an early diagnosis.
The group will be led by Val Traynham, who was diagnosed with both breast cancer and multiple myeloma at a young age, and brings a deeply personal perspective to the conversation.
We’ll open the conversation to share experiences, reflect on challenges, and talk through what it’s like to navigate a blood cancer diagnosis earlier in life. Together, we’ll explore what support feels most helpful right now and create space for honest, meaningful connection with others who understand this experience.
Cynthia and Val introduce the agenda of the event
Come with your questions to discuss with the group!
Cynthia Cahoon, RN
Cynthia is a newborn ICU nurse by trade that has spent the last six years in the medical device industry educating nurses and doctors about devices that are new to their facility. In her spare time she enjoys hiking, traveling the world with her family, and creating Halloween animatronics for her annual front yard display. She has a passion for life-long learning and enjoys sharing what she learns with the people around her.
Valarie Traynham
Valarie embarked on her myeloma journey back in 2015, and ever since she's been on a mission. As a resilient myeloma thriver, her passion lies in not just navigating her own path but also in illuminating the journey for others. With a steadfast commitment to understanding the intricacies of the disease, she champions education, shedding light on health inequities that often lurk in the shadows. Driven by a profound belief in fairness, Valarie tirelessly advocates for equitable access to top-tier healthcare, clinical trials, and tailored treatments. Her journey as a beacon of knowledge and support began when she assumed the role of a support group leader. Today, she continues to extend her hand as a myeloma coach, mentor angel, and the guiding force behind the Black Myeloma Health Community. Valarie's voice echoes far and wide as she fearlessly confronts the disparities faced by myeloma patients. Through collaborative efforts with healthcare providers, she strives to forge pathways to solutions, ensuring that every individual receives the care they deserve. Join Valarie on her journey of empowerment and advocacy as she lights the way toward a brighter, more equitable future in myeloma care.