Christine’s Story

My name is Christine, and I want to share my experience of living with Myeloma in the hope it might help or encourage others. I was diagnosed in the summer of 2023, at the age of 61.

Before my diagnosis, I had been feeling unusually tired and noticed some unexplained weight loss. At first, I thought it was just a lingering effect of COVID, which I had around Easter that year. I also had some backache, which I assumed came from pulling a muscle while gardening. It wasn’t until I felt a dull pain in my side that I finally went to see my GP.

The GP diagnosed me with a kidney infection (which I later found out that this was a result my immune system being compromised). While I was relieved to have an explanation, I sensed something more serious was happening. My GP listened carefully to all my symptoms and took blood tests. Later that evening, an out-of-hours doctor called me with the results. I was severely anaemic and at risk of becoming very ill. That call was frightening, but it set in motion the urgent care I needed.

Within a week, I was referred to Haematology in Nottingham, had an MRI and bone marrow biopsy, and started treatment immediately to prevent further deterioration. The doctors confirmed I had Myeloma, and I was invited to join the Radar Trial, a research study designed to personalise treatment based on the genetics of my Myeloma and how I responded to initial therapy. Being part of the trial meant close monitoring and a more personal approach to my treatment, which I really appreciated.

In February 2024, I had a stem cell transplant using my own previously harvested stem cells, followed by 100 days of recovery. After that, I had a 12 month period of maintenance treatment and also restarted my childhood immunisations, as the transplant had removed much of my previous immunity.

By June 2025, I completed my maintenance treatment and, as part of the trial, was randomised to see if I could safely stop medication. I was delighted to be chosen to stop treatment. I still attend the hospital every four weeks for a blood test and a chat to make sure everything is going well—and I feel really well.

Looking back, my journey has been challenging but also full of support. I am incredibly grateful to my GP, who recognised the signs of Myeloma quickly, the fantastic hospital team who looked after me, and my family and friends who have supported me through the past two years. My diagnosis was a shock and changed some of my plans, but it has also made me appreciate the little things in life and not worry about trivialities.