Coping with Hair Loss Before, During and After Your Stem Cell Transplant

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.

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.

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.