Sharon Hefetz

multiple myeloma coach since 2024

Hi, I’m Sharon Hefetz. In August 2023, I was diagnosed with Kappa light chain Multiple Myeloma, with four abnormalities in my FISH test—three of which were high-risk. At the time, 95% of my bone marrow was affected. Instead of pursuing a stem cell transplant after four DKRD cycles, I completed six cycles, then collected and froze my stem cells for future use. Fortunately, I reached MRD-5 after the six cycles, and my doctors agreed on a maintenance regimen that includes quad therapy once a month and KRD on day 15. Today, I’m still in remission—my blood counts are perfect, and my third bone marrow biopsy confirmed MRD-6. As a mindset coach, I’ve leaned heavily on positive thinking, intentional living, and holistic practices throughout my healing journey. Along with my vegan diet, which excludes processed foods, sugar, and flour, I’m constantly working on cultivating an environment of healing. If you have questions or would like to chat, feel free to reach out to me at mindset@sharonhefetzcoach.com. I know how tough these decisions can be, and I’m here to help.

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.

Kenny Capps

multiple myeloma coach since 2020

I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2015. After decades as an athlete of questionable ability (and a writer and business owner of dubious intelligence), cancer changed my perspective. I focused on quality-of-life solutions. After a bone marrow transplant, I focused on distance running, cycling, and swimming once again. I discovered a coping mechanism and a way to combat pain, fatigue, and treatment side effects through purposeful movement and (mostly) focused nutrition. In 2018 I ran across North Carolina on the Mountains to Sea trail. I ran 1,175 miles in 54 days averaging 22 miles a day while undergoing maintenance chemotherapy. Today, I am still fighting cancer with daily chemotherapy and still training for ultramarathons and epic adventures. I am the Executive Director for Cancer Active, Inc. (throwing-bones.org), whose mission is to encourage all blood cancer patients to stay healthy and active through treatment. I was educated at the University of Georgia (AB), the University of Denver (JD) and I am currently a candidate for Masters at of Public Health at the University of North Carolina. I have three children, ages 23, 20, and 11 (as of 2024). I advocate for all individuals living with cancer, and want to encourage you all to keep moving forward. Every day is another opportunity to take a step. Being active is one of the ways to stay ahead of life and to enjoy it more.