Last year I was supposed to attend the American Society of Hematology’s (ASH) annual meeting in New Orleans in person. After 2 years of attending virtually, I was really looking forward to seeing my fellow advocates from the International Myeloma Foundation (IMF) and attending the presentations in person. But as the saying goes: “The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry.” Last year, at the last minute, I was unable to attend ASH after being exposed to COVID-19. I didn’t get it, but I wanted to be safe for everyone, including me. I still participated virtually. So, this year I feel is a do-over for me. And I’m grateful to the IMF for asking me to be a part of the team again. And to our sponsors who help us attend each year.
Since being diagnosed 12 years ago, so much has changed in the myeloma landscape. There are many more options for patients, both when newly diagnosed and at relapse. One of the most important, but challenging decisions is how to sequence these treatments. What’s next? That is always on my mind. I was on Velcade (bortezomib) for 6 years. During most of that time, I questioned my doctor about what we would do when I relapsed. And that answer kept changing as new myeloma drugs were approved. When I did relapse, I started Darzalex (daratumamab) in July of 2020. And every time I see a change in my myeloma numbers, I ask “What’s next?” Until a cure is found, I will always be looking ahead, knowing that, for me, a relapse will most likely occur.
Many of the newer treatment options are for heavily pre-treated patients — those who have been on 4 or more lines of therapy. Doctors are looking at the benefits of these novel therapies for earlier relapsed patients and even newly diagnosed patients. I am looking forward to seeing results from some of these clinical trials. As often happens during ASH, I find something unexpected that grabs my attention. I look forward to sharing these findings and encourage you to follow me and the rest of the IMF team as we get busy at ASH2023!
— Sheri Baker