Celebration | Remission

MiriamMarino

It is the third time I hear the words, "Treatment has attained remission."
When I first heard it for the first time, I celebrated and thanked God to have made it through.
But it returned 9 months later, and I had to undergo an 18-month treatment for Relapse.
When I finished that treatment, I heard the words, "Treatment has accomplished it's goal of remission."
But it returned worse than before three months later.
What happened? I do not know. But it was disheartening.
Still, I submitted to treatment for Relapse, and this time with immunotherapy Darzalex, Dex and Pomalyst.
And after 6 months of intensive treatment, heard the words again, "Remission attained."
I want to celebrate. Really I do. But I've gotten to a place where I accept that Myeloma can return in my case and that I must be prepared to fight back! I will not give up!
I can celebrate the completion of a 6-month treatment that now turns into maintenance. I can celebrate that through it all God has been with me.
He has been with me through the loving people in my life. Through the medical providers who have monitored my care, Dr. Voorhees, Dr. Atrash, Dr. Usmani and the medical Team. Through the several resources available to keep me informed and educated about Myeloma. Through the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society who help financially to be able to afford treatment. I am especially grateful for the kindness and professional assistance of the Cancer Care Social Worker/Spvr., Anne Kinlaw, of the Levine Cancer Institute.
I can celebrate that there are good people in this world and I have encountered many of them on this journey. Thankful. Blessed. So very grateful to all and for all in my life.