why huntsman cancer institute?
What is myeloma, and how is it treated?
Multiple myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells in the bone marrow.
In this episode of the Fight Myeloma Podcast, Dr. Guido Tricot, the director of the Utah Blood and Marrow Transplant and Myeloma Program, explains where myeloma arises, who is at risk, common symptoms of the disease, and how this type of cancer is diagnosed and treated.
Dr. Tricot’s treatment method for the majority of multiple myeloma patients involves two autologous stem cell transplants. He explains why he thinks two transplants are needed in the treatment process, what the procedure entails, and how it is increasing the median survival rate for those diagnosed with myeloma.
Total running time: 25 minutes 28 seconds
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Nutrition Suggestions for Multiple Myeloma Patients
In this episode of the Fight Myeloma Podcast, we discuss nutrition for multiple myeloma patients undergoing a transplant. When discussing proper nutrition, there are two very important aspects to address.
The first is making sure that patients who are vulnerable to infection after cancer treatment eat foods that are safe and have less potential to cause infection and food-borne illness. The second involves preventing malnutrition, especially if patients are experiencing a loss of appetite or other side effects of treatment that make eating less enjoyable or even a chore.
Joining us to discuss these topics is Amanda Leukenga, a registered dietician who works in the Wellness Center at Huntsman Cancer Institute.
Total running time: 18 minutes 20 seconds
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The Wellness Center at Huntsman Cancer Institute
Treating multiple myeloma is about more than chemotherapy and stem cell transplants. In addition to treating the cancer itself, it’s important to address the many ways in which multiple myeloma affects the body and a person as a whole, both physically and emotionally.
In this episode of the Fight Myeloma Podcast, we take you to the Linda B. and Robert B. Wiggins Wellness Center at Huntsman Cancer Institute. It’s a place that offers a range of programs and services to patients and even their caregivers, including a fitness program, nutrition counseling, yoga, and acupuncture.
Total running time: 12 minutes 13 seconds
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Support for Myeloma Patients and Caregivers
A diagnosis of multiple myeloma can be overwhelming, and therefore it is important for patients and their caregivers to know that there are ways to seek support. This episode of the Fight Myeloma Podcast features two health care professionals at Huntsman Cancer Institute who help patients cope with the difficult emotions and life changes that can come along with having multiple myeloma.
Topics covered include how myeloma patients at Huntsman Cancer Institute can seek support, what kinds of feelings patients may be experiencing, why caregivers often hide their emotions, and common questions and concerns about the treatment process.
Total running time: 17 minutes 47 seconds
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A Patient's Story: Karen Opper
This episode of the Fight Myeloma Podcast features a discussion with 52-year-old Karen Opper of Sacramento, California.
Opper was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2002 and her treatment involved having two autologous stem cell transplants with high-dose chemotherapy and some maintenance therapy. Years later, in 2007, her myeloma began to progress somewhat. At the time of this interview in March 2008, she was preparing for a third transplant.
Opper discusses what her life has been like since she was diagnosed and offers advice to other myeloma patients and their loved ones.
Total running time: 9 minutes 50 seconds
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A Patient's Story: John Bailey
This episode of the Fight Myeloma Podcast features 64-year-old John Bailey, a physician from Logan, Utah, who was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2003. At the time of this interview in March 2008, Bailey was getting ready to run a marathon with his son. His disease is in remission after undergoing two autologous stem cell transplants with high-dose chemotherapy and some maintenance therapy.
Bailey says that knowing he still has many important things to do in life and many days to enjoy with his family keeps him strong and motivates him to seek physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Total running time: 14 minutes
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If you are a multiple myeloma patient or the caregiver of a patient, please consider sharing your story on the Fight Myeloma Podcast. If you have an interest in doing so, you can contact us using our contact form. We look forward to hearing from you!
