Communicating Effectively With Your Health Care Team

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.

Cassandra McDonald is a Law & Policy Analyst and Civil Rights Leader. She made history as the first African-American female to establish an NAACP branch in Cuyahoga County, and becoming the Founding President of the Euclid NAACP in Euclid, Ohio. Likewise, she has advocated and written legislation against racial inequality and discrimination. Besides her advocacy in civil rights, she is also a fierce advocate for advancements in early detection screening for Multiple Myeloma; including being a member of Cleveland Clinics Multiple Myeloma Consortium. She Chairs the Ohio State Bar Association Criminal Justice Committee, and a member of several civil rights, social justice, and humanitarian organizations. As an Analyst, she has appeared on television programs BET Live, BET with Roland Martin, HBO Vice, and Refinery29. She’s a regular featured commentator on the “Judge Joe Brown Radio Show.” Most recently, she is leading, “The Nations M.E.M.O.,” in Washington, DC to raise the voice and bring attention to our Missing, Exploited, Murdered, and Others. Her commitment to civil/human rights and social justice expands nationally.