Myeloma patients and caregivers that have been through the Stem Cell Transplant Process came together to create a comprehensive guide to autologous stem cell transplant for others who have questions about the process. They will explain what parts they find most important, where to find it on the website, and answer questions you might have.
Audrey introduces the agenda of the event and featured speakers Amy Gebhardt and Don Bathurst.
Don and Amy explain what parts he finds most important about the guide and answer questions you might have.
Don Bathurst was diagnosed on January 8, 2018. After six rounds of VRd, and Autologous Stem Cell Transplant in August 2018 he has achieved CR and sCR (depending on light chains) since November 2018. Since his retirement, he has focused my attention on his own health and ways that he can help others on their journey with this (chronic) disease, serving as a coach with the Myeloma Crowd. He also keeps his hand in professional activities as a Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration, serving on the editorial board of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers, where he is a Fellow, and serving as vice president of finance for the National Fire Heritage Center.
Audrey joined the HealthTree Foundation as the Myeloma Community Program Director in 2020. While not knowing much about myeloma at the start, she has since worked hard to educate herself, empathize and learn from others' experiences. She loves this job. Audrey is passionate about serving others, loves learning, and enjoys a nice mug of hot chocolate no matter the weather.
Amy Gebhardt currently lives in Nashville for the winter, summering in Upstate New York and on the St. Lawrence River with her husband of 24 years, Paul Gebhardt. Her career was very diversified including Retail Management, eCommerce, Public Relations, and Human Resources, and she has always enjoyed a new challenge. She left her position as Senior Regional Human Resource Manager at Rite Aid at age 54 to move to Nashville with her husband. Six months later she was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma. On August 1, 2018, she learned that she had Stage III Kappa Free Light Chain Multiple Myeloma. Her bone biopsy showed 90% cancer and her genetic testing revealed genetic mutations that put her in the high-risk category. She underwent 6 months of induction therapy and in February 2019 an autologous stem cell transplant. She achieved a stringent complete remission following the SCT. She has remained on maintenance therapy since May 2019. Amy enjoys bike riding, yoga, walking, sewing, and quilting. She spends time with family and friends as much as is safe during COVID. She devotes many hours a month volunteering time to Healthtree, Gilda’s House, and Jessica’s Heroes Foundation.
Thank you for your interest in the event. If you have any questions, we would love to help!
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