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What Black Myeloma Patients Should Know About Antibody Drug Conjugates

What Black Myeloma Patients Should Know About Antibody Drug Conjugates image

What Black Myeloma Patients Should Know About Antibody Drug Conjugates

Webinar
event Jun 29, 2026 / 05:00PM - 06:00PM EDT
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Event Description

New myeloma treatments are advancing quickly, but many Black patients are still left trying to piece together information on their own while navigating questions about access, trust, side effects, cost, and whether these treatments are even realistic options for them.

Antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) are an emerging therapy in multiple myeloma, yet many patients have never had these treatments clearly explained in a way that feels practical, relatable, and centered on real patient concerns.

Join Dr. Sakander Ailawadhi from Mao Clinic Jacksonville for an open, patient-centered conversation created specifically for Black myeloma patients and caregivers. This session will break down what antibody drug conjugates are, how they work, who may be eligible, possible side effects, and important questions patients should consider when discussing treatment options with their healthcare team.

This discussion is part of HealthTree’s ongoing commitment to improving education, awareness, and informed decision-making within the Black myeloma community. Our goal is not only to share information, but to help patients feel more confident asking questions, understanding their options, and navigating care.

Participants will be asked to complete a brief survey before and after the session to help us better understand how education can support Black patients in making informed treatment decisions.

Register, complete the survey, and come ready with your questions.

If your HealthTree profile is not fully completed beyond registration, you may be asked to provide a few additional details before accessing the survey. This may include basic demographic information and information about your care, such as where you are being treated.

 

Schedule & Agenda

The panelist Valarie Traynham
5:00 PM
Introduction
Valarie Traynham

Dalton introduces the agenda and our speaker Dr. Sikander Ailawadhi

The panelist Dr. Sikander Ailawadhi
5:05 PM
Presentation
Dr. Sikander Ailawadhi

Dr. Sakander Ailawadhi talks about how to help Black myeloma patients understand antibody drug conjugates

The panelist Audience
5:35 PM
Questions and Answers
Audience

Come with your questions and we will answer them! 

Speakers & Moderators

The panelist Valarie Traynham
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.

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The panelist Dr. Sikander Ailawadhi
Dr. Sikander Ailawadhi

Sikander Ailawadhi, MD, is a Professor of Medicine in the Division of Hematology/Oncology at the Mayo Clinic Florida located in Jacksonville, Florida. He is also the Lead for the International Cancer Center. Dr Ailawadhi's career focus includes the treatment of plasma cell disorders, multiple myeloma (MM), Waldenström's macroglobulinemia, and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). His research focuses on understanding the epidemiology and pathophysiology of these disorders; evaluating the benefit of various therapeutic strategies in different populations based on racial-ethnic and socioeconomic diversity; and developing novel therapeutics by means of conducting several regional and national clinical trials, such as clinical trials for novel drugs. Dr Ailawadhi has a special interest in understanding the disparities in care of cancer patients and their outcomes with a special focus on patients from different racial and ethnic backgrounds.

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Join the Conversation

This event is part of the Nutrition and Wellness group in HealthTree Connect, a social media platform for people with blood cancer. If you want to connect with other patients and caregivers and talk about this topic, join HealthTree Connect.

Have Any Questions?

Thank you for your interest in the event. If you have any questions, we would love to help!

Feel free to give us a call or send us a message below.

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