Doug Keller

multiple myeloma coach since 2021

I was diagnosed in 2012 after I fell at my son's college graduation and broke my arm, which had a plasmacytoma in it. After radiation and induction therapy I had a stem cell transplant in 2013. Subsequently I was on various combinations of Revlimid, Elotuzumab, Daratumumab, Pomalyst, Kyprolis, and dexamethasone. I tried a clinical trial that was not successful for me and then had another SCT in 2020. After a year I relapsed again and had Carvykti CAR-T therapy in June, 2022. I'm now in remission for the first time! I worked for 22 years in pharmaceutical research and was involved in the development of Sarclisa, which was personally very satisfying. I retired in January 2021. My wife is happy to have me doing things around the house and showing less stress. She has been a rock of support during this whole process, and my two sons are also very supportive. My quality of life is very good, and I have been enjoying getting back on the golf course now that I have time to play. I am also informally mentoring friends who have smoldering myeloma. In 2022 I had Carvykti CAR-T and went into remission for 28 months. Now I'm back on treatment with teclistamab.

Bonnie Falbo

multiple myeloma coach since 2020

I have been my 75 year old husband's patient advocate and caregiver since we started this journey in 2008 when he was diagnosed with MGUS. In 2016 he progressed to high-risk smoldering and then active myeloma in 2018. In June 2019 he had an autologous stem cell transplant followed by lenalidomide maintenance and he also participation in a Vaccine Trial. After a very slow biochemical progression he started DPd in May 2023. We are now planning ahead for CARVYKTI with the next relapse. Throughout the years I use the skills I have learned as a Physician Assistant, Wellness Coach and Personal Trainer to be his advocate, educator, caregiver and skilled listener. With my medical background I know how to prepare for doctor appointments to make the most of your precious time with your doctor. I can help you succinctly present your whole health/personal lifestyle picture and organize your questions in a way that will engage your doctor and stimulate discussion. My medical training enables me to review labs and reports with you and help you learn what information is important to track. I can also help you sort through differing medical opinions to develop an approach this is right for you. In addition, I can help with research on Medicare Part D. I have a passion for educating and coaching people and I feel privileged to partner with myeloma patients and other caregivers. I understand how complex and confusing this disease is and know that sometimes despite the best intentions of friends and family it is helpful to talk to someone who "gets" myeloma. I especially want to offer you compassionate listening and an opportunity to have a time and space that's private and just for YOU. We live with our furry kids, Yukon the dog and Peakahn, the cat. I'm a native New Yorker and former WDC resident, who now enjoys the beauty and tranquility of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.

Donnie Houston

multiple myeloma coach since 2024

I was diagnosed with MM early this year. As you can imagine all kinds of thoughts entered my mind and the uncertainty of what life will be like for myself and my family. My healthcare team and I decided to take an aggressive approach using chem and three drug combinations. My journey like many who fight this devastating illness is filled with ups and downs goods days and challenging days. However, with prayer, help from my cancer team and support team I am 30 days post stem cell transplant my numbers are great and all I can say is thank you God!!