Heartbeat: New group to support myeloma patients
May 4, 2020
Not so uncommon, but often diagnosed late, myeloma is an incurable but treatable form of blood cancer found in the bone marrow. It impacts thousands of people across the UK and accounts for 15 per cent of all blood cancers.
A newly formed support group has launched to support myeloma patients. The Midland Metropolitan Myeloma Support Group (MMMSG) officially launched on 22 April. It provides a broad array of support ranging from patient and carer information, living with myeloma and treatment options to name but a few things.
The inaugural meeting will take place at the education centre at Sandwell Hospital. Patron, Dr Farooq Wandroo, Haematology Consultant commented, “MMMSG is a new myeloma patient support group established with the help of registered charity Myeloma UK. Over the years, we have been feeling an unmet need to have something in place to support myeloma patients and their carers when they are newly diagnosed or post-chemotherapy.
“It’s essential that there is support available to share information, experiences and expert advice. Information plays a vital role in helping individuals come to terms with a myeloma diagnosis and understanding treatment options. Over 17, 000 people in the UK have myeloma and, though the disease remains incurable, the majority of patients now live a pronged life with current treatments.
“This group consists of several patients and carers who are very enthusiastic about meeting and supporting each other. Doctors and nurses will support the group by providing advice on treatments available, management of pain, toxicities and measures to help myeloma patients live life to the fullest. The group will also help spread awareness about myeloma and promote early diagnosis to help prevent complications. It will also be working closely the Trust’s cancer services team.”
Jane Ogleby, Macmillan Haematology CNS said: “We’re looking forward to the launch of the MMMSG; it will offer a great way for patients and family members to meet in an informal and welcoming setting. It will provide those living with myeloma lots of useful resources and access to trained professionals. It will also offer specialist support to help individuals deal with everything from their diagnosis through to more practical tips on how to navigate life with myeloma. As well as this individuals will benefit from support from each other as well as carers.”