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With Coach, we are in this together

HealthTree Coaches are experienced patients and caregivers who understand the importance of support from someone who knows first-hand what you’re going through.

Personalized Coaching

All Coaches are volunteer survivors or caregivers who want to share their experiences and help guide you through your diagnosis and treatment.

You can find a coach who:
  • Has your type of disease
  • Had a similar treatment
  • Has personal areas of experience to match your needs
  • Lives in your geographic area
You are able to work with more than one Coach at a time and can connect by phone, computer or in person.

Become a Coach

  • Make a meaningful difference in patients' lives.
  • No experience needed – we provide comprehensive training on skills and knowledge to help you succeed.
  • Commitment - Dedicate at least 8 hours per month for one year.
  • Access to easy-to-use resources, including online videos, webinars, and helpful tools to help you find the right answers quickly.

Find Meaningful Connections

Marvella Compton image
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Marvella Compton

multiple myeloma coach since 2024

Hello My name is Marvella Compton. In November 2021, I started having shoulder and lower back pain. I was diagnosed by my PCP as having a pinched nerve. The pain became worse after 3 trips back and forth to the doctor under pain medicine, muscle relaxer, etc. A MRI was then ordered which revealed a herniated disc on my L3-L5. I completed 3 months of PT without any relief. The pain was excruciating in my lower left hip all the way down my left leg to my toes. I could barely walk. I then decided to go to the neuro surgeon who set me up for surgery immediately. On May 10, 2022, I had microdiscectomy surgery to remove the herniated disc. On May 17, 2022, I received a phone call from the surgeon himself and asked me to come in. He needed to speak with me. I said I just had back surgery I can barely move. I cannot make it. He then asked for permission to speak with me over the phone. I gave permission. He told me he did not like what he saw when he removed my herniated disc. He then sent it off to pathology to be worked up. Me being a Clinical Laboratory Scientist and the Administrative Officer over Pathology Laboratory Medicine Service at the Veteran Affairs Hospital, I realized what he was about to say was not good. We he told me that it came back as some form of rare blood cancer. After having a bone marrow biopsy, MRI, PET Scan, and a lot of blood work it was determined that I had Multiple Myeloma. I then started weekly induction chemotherapy in June of 2022 and lasted through December 2022. I was given Velcade, Darzalex (Daratummab), Dexamethasone, and Zometa. In December 2022, I was referred to UAMS Myeloma Center to see Dr. Van Rhee for a SCT (Stem Cell Transplant) workup. I had a SCT on March 17, 2023. I started weekly maintenance chemotherapy in July 2023. I had another bone marrow biopsy and Pet scan in March 2024. I was informed on March 19, 2024 that I am MRD (minimal residual disease) Negative. I was blessed to have a career that allowed me to still work during all of my treatments. I was allowed to work from home when I needed to. Being a Clinical Laboratory Scientist, I knew alot about my condition. It is different when you actually see what you learned in a textbook on yourself.

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