Jeffrey Rich

multiple myeloma coach since 2026

In May, 2020, at the age of 56, I had a routine blood test done which showed abnormal markers associated with MGUS (Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance). MGUS does not need to be treated but should be monitored, as in a small number of cases, MGUS can progress to a more serious blood disorder, multiple myeloma (MM). 1% of MGUS cases progress to MM each year and about 20% of MGUS cases progress to MM at some point in the person’s life. I was monitored by an oncologist through 2023 and had two bone marrow biopsies during this period. The markers and biopsy results continued to deteriorate until I was declared to have smoldering multiple myeloma in 2023, a precursor to a full MM diagnosis. In fact, the markers were close enough to full blown MM that I decided to be treated for MM in early 2024. This included a quad-drug chemotherapy treatment and autologous stem cell transplant. Currently, I’m in remission (knock wood) and feeling good. My mother was diagnosed with MM and passed away shortly after in 2006. The number and effectiveness of MM treatments at that time was limited. Though a genetic link to MM has not been discovered as of yet, family history is considered a risk factor. My mother’s ordeal helped to educate me on MM, well before I was diagnosed. Though I have been unlucky in contracting MM, the MGUS diagnosis allowed me to follow the progression to MM very carefully. I’d consider myself “lucky” in that I have not realized some of worst symptoms of MM, such as bone and organ damage. Many MM patients’ first indication that they have the disease is when they report significant bone and/or organ injuries. Thus, early detection is important, if possible. In the 19 years since my mother was diagnosed, many advancements have been made in treatments such that the life span of survival with the disease is much improved. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has been instrumental in working on improved treatments for cancers with no cure such as MM. More effective treatments with fewer side effects are being developed every year such that more MM patients are living longer, higher quality lives. Sustaining NIH’s research investments along with providing the associated insurance coverage is paramount for the long-term benefit of MM patients and to possibly discovering a cure for MM in the future. I intend to advocate for MM to help keep the positive momentum going. My outlook as a MM patient is encouraging in light of what happened to my mother and the current environment of improving treatments.

Alexander Jacobs

multiple myeloma coach since 2023

I was diagnosed -- to my surprise, with virtually no symptoms -- at age 34. Initially diagnosed by a private hematologist, I decided to seek treatment at Memorial Sloan Kettering in New York. I ended up being treated with eight cycles of carfilzomib+ dexamethasone + revlimid (KRD) and, given that I was virtually MRD negative, went through a stem cell collection but opted not to do a transplant. I began revlimid maintenance therapy in 2021 and the current recommendation from my care team is to remain on it for the foreseeable future. I live in New York City, where I help run a nonprofit focused on social policy research. I worked (remotely) throughout most of treatment, which was of course challenging but thankfully not too debilitating. Given the unusual age at which I was diagnosed, I have also tried (and continue trying!) to seek good information about how to manage the condition both psychologically and physically as a younger patient.

Melissa Rosenbauer

multiple myeloma coach since 2023

HOLA! I am Melissa Rosenbauer, an American living in Spain with my German husband, Thomas Bossert, who has multiple myeloma. Together, we have made it through the toughest year of our lives when Thomas (55) was diagnosed with MM in February 2022. But now we are on the other side and I am excited to help guide YOU through all that we've learned so you too can get to the other side of this. As a caretaker, I can speak to some specific areas of MM: - navigating care outside the US (specifically in the Spanish public system) - kidney failure and dialysis (Thomas was on dialysis for 4 months at diagnosis) - quad induction therapy (VRD plus Daratumamab) - strange side effects like hiccups - stem cell transplant - how to seek out and ask for help from friends & neighbors I am a happy, upbeat, positive person who chose to take this journey with love, understanding & acceptance. Yes, I've been through all the stages of grief at Thomas's diagnosis, but I've always tried to stay optimistic throughout. And this was in part with the help of HealthTree's coach program. Thomas & I connected with our coaches, Tad & Maci, very early on and they were with us every step of the way. I'd like to be with YOU every step of the way. From our experience, we know it's important to connect with people who are in similar circumstances, so I'll tell you a little bit more about me: I'm 45 years old, we do not have children (but one 4-legged fur baby, Lola!!) and I work as a textile & interior designer. I speak English, Spanish and German (I prefer English as my native tongue, but can help guide you in Spanish as well). I hope with my experience, we can find a connection and I can help you in YOUR journey. Let's get started and through this together!!