7 Reasons Why Myeloma Patients Should Have a Support Circle

Brought to you in partnership with the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF)

You’ve probably considered how important it is to have a close circle of family and friends to lean on for support and encouragement.

Once you’re diagnosed with multiple myeloma, things may happen pretty quickly. Your doctor may run down a list of your options. Naturally, you may be overwhelmed and unsure of what to do. This is where your support team comes into play. A support team can be the calm and healing force you need during this time. They may even help you make those important decisions on what treatment option may be best for you.

No matter who is filling the role, having a support team can offer you the following:

Someone to attend appointments with
Someone to take note of any tests or procedures you have done, medication instructions you receive, and questions you’ll want to follow up about.
Fills prescriptions and navigates insurance.
Handles phone calls and emails when you are unable to.
Helps with day-to-day tasks.
Makes sure your essentials are taken care of (ie. bills).
Helps out with children, pets, etc.

These are all important tasks that often get overlooked when someone is undergoing cancer treatment. Your support team will be able to make sure nothing gets pushed to the side and alleviate a bit of stress. However, don’t expect all your loved ones to be well equipped for everything that myeloma entails or even understand exactly what you are going through.

Sometimes you may also need someone who understands what you are going through because they have lived it themselves.

Luckily, the MMRF has several resources to guide you through your journey no matter what stage you are in:

Multiple Myeloma: Finding Financial Assistance and Resources

Myeloma Mentors program

For those looking for someone who has had or is currently going through the myeloma journey, MMRF’s The Myeloma Mentors program can help. No matter what your disease state, there are mentors available to you that have insights and information that can be beneficial to both you and your caregivers.

These mentors are trained to share their personal experiences. Oftentimes this helps inform, activate, empower and support other patients and caregivers who may be experiencing the same thing.

This is a phone-based program offering an opportunity for a patient and/or caregiver to connect one-on-one with a trained patient and/or caregiver mentor to share their patient journeys and experiences.

MMRF’s patient mentors are living with multiple myeloma in various stages and classifications, and they have undergone a variety of treatments. They are excited to share their experiences and offer you support and guidance on your multiple myeloma journey.

All you have to do is find the perfect mentor and fill out the form to request to speak with them.

Patient Navigation Center

MMRF’s Patient Navigation Center is available Monday–Friday, 9 AM-7 PM ET 1-888-841-MMRF(6673) for a call. They will connect you with a myeloma expert at the Patient Navigation Center to help you further understand your diagnosis, get answers to your critical questions and receive guidance on the best treatment options for you.

Additionally, you can email Patient Navigator directly at [email protected]

Find a support group

If you are seeking support closer to you, MMRF’s search tool will help you get connected with other patients living with multiple myeloma in your area.

Although it may be hard to ask for help from family or friends or confide in a stranger, it’s important that you build a team that is perfect for the unique support you are looking for. You can’t get through your treatment alone, so figure out exactly what you need and don’t be afraid to ask for it.