Thriving In The New Normal: Living Your Best Life Despite Myeloma
We are honored to feature three incredible long-term cancer survivors who will share their personal stories of overcoming challenges and embracing life to the fullest, despite their myeloma diagnoses. These courageous individuals will take us on a journey through their experiences, highlighting the determination, positivity, and passion that have helped them not only survive but truly thrive while adjusting and accepting their new normal.
Valarie introduces the agenda of the event and our featured speakers Carmen Howard, Robert Pugh and Rakitia Delk
Carmen, Robert and Rakitia share their personal stories of overcoming challenges and embracing life to the fullest, despite their myeloma diagnoses.
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Valarie Traynham
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.
Robert Pugh
Robert Pugh has an extensive business background, Church leadership, public speaking, and training. Robert has been engaged with Multiple Myeloma outreach, patient education, and an ASCT orientation program through the major Cancer Center in Charlotte NC. As a patient himself, he has a unique perspective.
Carmen Howard
Carmen Howard, a Pittsburgh, PA native, is a proud US Army veteran who served from 1976 to 1983. After a successful career in IT and as a tax professional, she is now retired. Carmen is married to William Ginyard and is a devoted mother of six, grandmother of 18, and great-grandmother to one in their blended family. A survivor of Multiple Myeloma and Amyloidosis since her diagnosis in January 2006, she is currently participating in a CFT clinical trial, preparing for a CAR-T cell transplant in the coming months.
Rakitia Delk
Rakitia was born and raised in Prince George’s County, MD, a suburb of Washington D.C. After graduating from Spelman College in Atlanta, GA, she returned to her hometown and pursued an education career that spanned over a decade. Beyond the classroom, her adventures over the course of her 17-year myeloma journey have taken her to 6 continents and allowed her to live on three. More than seeing new places, she’s enjoyed connecting with people in diverse cultures and living a life rich with experiences. A devoted wife and mother, she enjoys sharing life with her husband of 20 years and their three children: Madison, Makayla, and Daniel III.