“Her Courage Makes Her My Hero”: A Caregiver Story

When Rufus Jones’s wife Laraine was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, they leaned on each other and their family. “Despite the challenges of her illness, our family has grown closer, and my relationship with Laraine has deepened,” Rufus said. “I have never viewed myself as a caregiver. I simply love my wife.”  

In November, HealthTree Foundation is sharing your stories of caregiving and celebrating caregivers for Caregiver Awareness Month.

Together every step of the way

After Laraine’s myeloma diagnosis, Rufus was with her at every moment. He accompanied her on long day trips from Connecticut to Dana Farber in Boston, prepared all of her meals, and supported her emotionally after her stem cell transplant. “Together, we faced her diagnosis with resolve, lightened her responsibilities, and educated ourselves about multiple myeloma,” Rufus said.

After Laraine lost her mother in 2010, she managed all of her family and professional responsibilities, which put her under significant stress. Rufus believes this contributed to her illness. She began chemotherapy after her myeloma diagnosis in 2011 and stepped back from her career as a teacher to prepare for an autologous stem cell transplant.

The stem cell transplant was successful and Laraine was in remission until a relapse in 2016. After that, she received a new therapy which restored her health. “For fourteen years, Laraine has faced multiple myeloma with strength and optimism. She refused to accept a limited prognosis, educated herself, engaged with her medical team, and took ownership of her health through lifestyle changes and spiritual growth,” Rufus said. 

After they both retired, they embraced the extra time together by becoming more active. They now enjoy biking, hiking, photography, golf, tennis, and travel. 

A diagnosis that inspired a family to give back

Laraine has given back so much to the myeloma community over the years. She mentors other myeloma patients, participates in studies and workshops, and leads support groups and has received recognition for her support and influence.

“Laraine’s example has inspired our family,” Rufus shared. Their daughter Lauren, an avid runner, has raised over $150,000 for cancer research. She was honored as the Massachusetts Leukemia and Lymphoma Woman of the Year in 2019. 

Myeloma does not define the Jones family

“To me, a hero is someone admired for their achievements, noble qualities, and unwavering courage. I am fortunate to find mine in my wife, Laraine. Just as Booker T. Washington said, ‘Don’t let your circumstances define you.’ Together, we have not let multiple myeloma define Laraine or diminish her zest for living. As a caregiver, I have helped Laraine continue to have a zest for living and giving,” said Rufus. “I am thankful for her journey and the growth we have shared since the diagnosis.” 

Rufus’s story reminds us that caregiving is rooted in love, partnership, and courage. 

Join a regional Cure Team to connect with other caregivers

A multiple myeloma diagnosis can feel overwhelming and frightening for everyone. You may need help gathering information and navigating a myeloma diagnosis. HealthTree can help. Join a regional HealthTree Cure team to gain access to HealthTree Connect, where you can talk to other myeloma caregivers today.

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