In this podcast, Maire Treasa Ní Cheallaigh chats to sisters Rachel and Laura, whose mum was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2016. Sharing their experiences, they discuss everything from the initial shock of the diagnosis, to the limited  information available for families of myeloma patients, touching on important issues such as patient autonomy, supporting someone close to you with myeloma, and the emotional impact that comes with a loved one receiving a multiple myeloma diagnosis.  Thanks for listening. Multiple Myeloma Ireland: Website Facebook Twitter This podcast has been pr ..read more

In this podcast, Episode 1 of the 2nd Series and our second in the Living with Amyloidosis series, Darren Foard and Angelique Smit, nurse experts from the Royal Free Hospital in London, provide an excellent overview of Amyloidosis focussing on disease symptoms, the patient's journey and diagnostic investigations to confirm AL Amyloidosis.  They discuss their role in assisting patient navigate their diagnosis and outline the referral pathway for Irish patients for further investigation at the National Amyloidosis Centre at the Royal Free Hospital in London.  Amyloidosis management req ..read more

In this podcast Dr John Quinn explains how AL Amyloidosis, a rare illness which is not fully understood, can often be tricky to diagnose.   Early diagnosis, however, is key to minimise organ damage and treatments have improved over the past 10 years with high response rates piggybacking off myeloma treatments. There is no typical Amyloidosis patient and many may have been feeling unwell for 9-12 months before a diagnosis is made. Symptoms of Amyloidosis vary among patients and include generalised tiredness, weight loss, feeling lightheaded, numbness or a tingling feeling in hands or feet ..read more

In this final podcast of the series, Journalist, ex-Irish Times correspondent, Kerryman, and Multiple Myeloma patient Michael O’Regan discusses his experience of living with the condition. Michael's chat with Maire Treasa was recorded as part of the podcast series launch. In this engaging and honest account of Michael's personal story he outlines his diagnosis and treatment journey, which was complicated by the fact that it was his second cancer diagnosis. His first being a tumour on his leg back in 2018, which could have delayed his multiple myeloma diagnosis. He describes how he had some “cl ..read more

In this podcast Professor Siobhan Glavey, provides an update of the rapid developments in managing Multiple Myeloma. Professor Glavey explains how the future has never been more hopeful as significant improvement in treatment options has resulted in unprecedented progression free survival (PFS). Today not only are patients living longer, they have a healthier quality of life. Professor Glavey explains the many variables in managing myeloma and the importance of a personalised approach, using the right drugs with the right patient. In her discussion with Maire Treasa she outlines the many ..read more

In this podcast Dr Norma Jean Murphy, Chartered Senior Clinical and Counselling Psychologist, chats to Maire Treasa about overcoming the overwhelming reactions patients may feel at diagnosis of Multiple Myeloma from shock, disbelief, anger, sadness, loss and for some relief they finally have a diagnosis particularly as many patients may have been unwell for some time. She explains there is no right way or wrong way to deal with a diagnosis, each person’s experience is unique and each patients journey is personal and individual. Norma Jean explains the importance in processing emotions and ..read more

In her engaging conversation with Maire Treasa, Ruth Kilcawley Senior Nutritional Support Dietitian at University College Hospital, Galway describes the impact of what we eat on our physical health. Ruth outlines the role of good diet and nutrition in managing cancer, reducing infections and improving Multiple Myeloma patients quality of life. Ruth stresses the importance of maintaining strength whilst undergoing treatment. She shares advice on how to balance and manage food intake. Ruth explains the importance of food variety, mixed food colours and choosing safe foods to maximise nutrition i ..read more

In this podcast, Dr Denis O’Keeffe, Consultant Hematologist explains that Multiple Myeloma will in the majority of patients come back, however today many options for treating and controlling the relapsed/refractory disease exists and patients survival has greatly improved. Dr O’Keeffe is keen to point out patients cannot stop Multiple Myeloma from coming back but it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Dr O’Keeffe advises early recognition of the disease relapse is possible due to close monitoring and before the disease can cause damage. Not all patients require treatment at relapse a ..read more

In this podcast, Ann shares her personal experience of living with Multiple Myeloma for over 5 years. Although, her multiple myeloma has relapsed more than once and requires ongoing treatment, she is living well and is hopeful for the future.   Ann' s engaging conversation with Maire Tresa  provides advice on the importance of taking control of your life, being active and surrounding yourself with supportive people when coping with this relapsing, remitting cancer. She describes how learning to adjust her mindset and adapting her activities has helped her learn to live with relapsed ..read more

In this podcast, Nurse Liz Higgins, Transplant Co-Ordinator at St James Hospital, Dublin provides a detailed account of the autologous stem cell transplant patient pathway. Liz explains the role of stem cells, how stem cells are harvested and later given back to a patient following high dose chemotherapy.  Although, not curative, ASCT aims to treat Multiple Myeloma, prolong disease control and improve overall survival. Liz summaries the eligibility criteria and assessment process required prior to undergoing a ASCT. Liz clearly outlines the role of the multidisciplinary team in supporting ..read more