What I Learned at ASH as a Myeloma Patient: Personalized Care & Access | Valarie Traynham

Hello, my name is Valerie Traynham and I'm a patient advocate. I came to ASH this year really wanting to understand how the science and multiple myeloma is evolving and how these advances are actually going to reach real patients, especially those in Black communities that have been historically underserved. For me, some of the most valuable time wasn't spent just sitting in sessions. It was talking to physicians and industry partners directly. I had the chance to ask questions about what's coming, how it applies to newly diagnosed patients, and most importantly, how we make sure communities in high incidents and poor access aren't left behind. I also attended sessions on the role of stem cell transplant and maintenance. What stood out to me in the transplant discussion is how the transplant continues to play an important role for many patients. But it's not always a simple yes or no. Decisions are becoming more individualized based on age, fitness, risk, and how well a patient responds to early treatment. So patients really need personalized conversations, not just a standard pathway. On the maintenance side, I heard that strategies can vary depending on MRD status, genetics, and risk. Some patients need longer maintenance, others might be able to scale back, and there's still discussion about the best combination for each person. What that reminded me is that patients shouldn't be afraid to ask why a certain plan isn't being recommended for them and whether there are options. So between transplant and maintenance, the common theme for me was individualized care. The fear clearly wants to tailor treatment based on response and genetics. And that tells me that patients need access not only to the science, but the specialists who can help us understand it and make these major decisions with confidence. As a patient advocate, I'm always thinking about who this reaches and whom it misses. For Black patients especially, advanced treatments don't help if we don't have access or if the latest standards aren't making their way into local communities. That's why I spent time in the conversations with the partners who are actually in the position to help bridge those gaps. Being here reminds me that the science is moving quickly, but the real challenge is making sure patients aren't left behind by that progress. That's what motivates me and that's the work I'm committed to working and continuing.