Myeloma support group leaders from around the state. From left, Jack Huguelet, Chattanooga; Toni Montgomery, Memphis; Linda Huguelet, Chattanooga; Governor Bill Haslam; Kelly Owens and Carol Sanders, Nashville, and Mark McCalman, Johnson City.
Governor Bill Haslam has proclaimed March 2018 Myeloma Action Month. According to the International Myeloma Foundation, Myeloma, also referred to as multiple myeloma, is an incurable cancer of cells in the bone marrow. Myeloma currently affects more than 100,000 people in the United States, with an estimated 30,330 new cases diagnosed in 2016. Myeloma is increasing in numbers and is becoming more common in younger patients, with possible links to environmental toxins.
“We appreciate Governor Haslam’s continued support in helping to raising awareness of myeloma,” said Linda Huguelet, leader of the Chattanooga Multiple Myeloma Networking Group. “This recognition is important to me because increased awareness can lead to earlier diagnosis for others which can help them avoid some of the side effects I experienced prior to my diagnosis.” Ms. Huuelet experienced some of the most common symptoms for months, such as anemia and on-going back pain, prior to her diagnosis.
Ms. Huguelet, who lives in Signal Mountain, was diagnosed in 2010 when she was 46. “Our support group is a place where people with myeloma and their families can learn about the newest treatments available and gain support and education from those who have been living with the disease.” The Chattanooga Multiple Myeloma Networking Group meets the second Thursdays at 6 p.m. at the Memorial Center for Cancer Support.
Myeloma Action Month is sponsored by the International Myeloma Foundation, the leader in global collaborative myeloma research. The IMF brings together the world’s leading myeloma experts through the International Myeloma Working Group and is charting a path to a cure through the foundation’s signature project, the Black Swan Research Initiative.
For more information about the Chattanooga Multiple Myeloma Networking Group, contact Ms. Huguelet at 779-4907 or go to www.MyelomaChattanooga.org for more information.