At 39, Tony had only just started his personal training business when he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2013. Tony’s diagnosis began when he hurt his back during a training session. The pain eventually became severe enough for the ER, where CT scans confirmed L1, L3, and L4 vertebrae fractures along with numerous lytic lesions. He was admitted to the hospital and immediately started treatment. Tony began chemotherapy in October of 2013, received vertebroplasty in November, and kyphoplasty in February of 2014 to help stabilize his vertebrae and prevent further fractures. Tony received his autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) in 2016 without complication. Back then, his doctors predicted he wouldn’t be able to resume a vigorous training schedule. Today, he’s in the gym daily and has relaunched his personal training business. With unwavering support from his faith, family, and friends, Tony knows the body and spirit can overcome enormous challenges.

Peter Voorhees, MD, is Director of Outreach and Clinical Operations for Hematologic Malignancies and a Member of the Plasma Cells Disorder Program at the Levine Cancer Institute in Charlotte, North Carolina. Dr. Voorhees is an internationally recognized thought leader in multiple myeloma whose research focuses on the clinical development of novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of newly diagnosed and relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma. He is board certified in Hematology and a member of the American Society of Hematology, American Society of Clinical Oncology and International Myeloma Working Group. He is also a member of the Multiple Myeloma Committee of the Alliance Cooperative Group. He has published numerous original articles, reviews and book chapters in multiple myeloma. He received his medical degree from the University of Michigan, continued his postgraduate studies with an internal medicine residency/chief residency at the University of Wisconsin, and completed a hematology-oncology fellowship at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Prior to joining the Levine Cancer Institute, he was an Associate Professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where he led their Multiple Myeloma Program.

Valarie embarked on her myeloma journey back in 2015, and ever since she's been on a mission. As a resilient myeloma thriver, her passion lies in not just navigating her own path but also in illuminating the journey for others. With a steadfast commitment to understanding the intricacies of the disease, she champions education, shedding light on health inequities that often lurk in the shadows. Driven by a profound belief in fairness, Valarie tirelessly advocates for equitable access to top-tier healthcare, clinical trials, and tailored treatments. Her journey as a beacon of knowledge and support began when she assumed the role of a support group leader. Today, she continues to extend her hand as a myeloma coach, mentor angel, and the guiding force behind the Black Myeloma Health Community. Valarie's voice echoes far and wide as she fearlessly confronts the disparities faced by myeloma patients. Through collaborative efforts with healthcare providers, she strives to forge pathways to solutions, ensuring that every individual receives the care they deserve. Join Valarie on her journey of empowerment and advocacy as she lights the way toward a brighter, more equitable future in myeloma care.