**Disclaimer: The information in this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult with your health care provider regarding your medical decisions and treatment. Any listed resources are not intended to be endorsements.**

In today's episode of our podcast, we had the privilege of speaking with Gregory Proctor, a 53-year-old multiple myeloma survivor from San Antonio, Texas. Gregory's story is a testament to resilience and hope, as he details his journey through a challenging battle with cancer, starting from his diagnosis in July 2022, to his stem cell transplant, and his ongoing recovery. 

Gregory shares the shock and fear he experienced when first diagnosed, particularly when advised to "get his affairs in order." He describes the mental and emotional toll of dealing with such a diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of mental strength and determination in facing the disease. His story took a dramatic turn with his return to the hospital just 14 hours after being discharged, due to a dangerously high fever. This event marked the beginning of a challenging path to recovery, filled with physical weakness and stringent precautions to protect his compromised immune system.

A significant part of Gregory's conversation focuses on the emotional challenges of coping with cancer. He talks about the initial period of depression and the process of accepting his new life and journey. This acceptance was crucial in shifting his mindset from despair to determination and finding a renewed sense of purpose.

Financial toxicity was another critical topic Gregory touches upon. He sheds light on the staggering costs of cancer treatment and the importance of understanding insurance policies and seeking additional resources. His experience highlights the often-overlooked financial burden of battling cancer, which can be as devastating as the disease itself.

Gregory also discussed the social isolation he experienced, exacerbated by the pandemic and his condition. He highlighted the changes he had to make in his daily routine, like visiting grocery stores during low-peak hours and carefully vetting his social interactions to avoid infections.

On a positive note, Gregory spoke about regaining his strength and the incremental progress he made in his physical recovery. He emphasized the mental aspect of this journey, pushing boundaries to rebuild his strength gradually. His story is inspiring, showing that persistence and small, consistent efforts can lead to significant improvements over time.

Gregory's approach to medication management was unconventional yet effective for him. He advocated for a treatment plan that made sense to him and allowed him to maintain some normalcy in his life. This part of the conversation underscored the importance of patient advocacy and being an active participant in one's treatment plan.

As for his current life, Gregory is channeling his experiences into positive endeavors. He just published his book, titled Faith, Strength, and Courage, and is actively involved in speaking engagements and consultancy work. His story is a beacon of hope for many, illustrating how one can turn adversity into an opportunity to inspire and help others.

Gregory concluded the podcast with valuable advice for those facing tough days. He stressed the importance of never giving up, finding strength in faith, and realizing that you're not alone in your journey. His message is clear: cancer may be a part of your life, but it doesn't define your entire existence.

Greg's Book: Faith, Strength, and Courage on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/FAITH-STRENGTH-COURAGE-Overcoming-Adversity/dp/760919834X/

Other Resources

National Bone Marrow Transplant Link - (800) LINK-BMT, or (800) 546-5268.

nbmtLINK Website: https://www.nbmtlink.org/

nbmtLINK Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/nbmtLINK

nbmtLINK YouTube Page can be found by clicking here.

Thank you to our sponsors. This season is supported by a healthcare contribution from Sanofi  https://www.sanofi.com/

**Disclaimer: The information in this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult with your health care provider regarding your medical decisions and treatment. Any listed resources are not intended to be endorsements.**

Today we welcome Diane Raab, a remarkable survivor of multiple myeloma and a licensed clinical social worker from Cheboygan, Michigan. Diane shares her personal journey through the challenging path of cancer treatment, sprinkling her narrative with both professional insights and deeply personal experiences.

Diane's story begins with the diagnosis of multiple myeloma following persistent back pain. She recounts the rigorous process of diagnosis, which led to seven months of chemotherapy in preparation for a stem cell transplant. She remembers the steroids turned her into an 'Energizer Bunny,' enhancing her productivity during treatment.

The focus then shifts to her transplant experience at the University of Michigan. Diane praises the comprehensive and detailed guide provided by the hospital, which helped alleviate much of her anxiety. She describes the fascinating process of stem cell harvesting and the convenience of using a port for medical procedures. However, the journey was not without its hardships, as Diane lost her hair due to the intensive chemotherapy, a side effect handled with grace and humor.

Post-transplant, Diane faced numerous challenges in adjusting to everyday life, from being in a highly protected hospital environment to navigating the risks of infection at home. She had to adopt new hygiene practices, including daily showers with clean towels and washcloths, and careful food preparation to avoid infection risks. Diane also shares the emotional toll of not being able to socialize freely and the adjustments she made to stay connected with friends and family.

Peggy and Diane delve into the physical changes Diane experienced after her transplant, particularly the fatigue and the need to listen to her body's demands for rest. Diane also touches on the mental aspects of coping with cancer, emphasizing the importance of avoiding negative online forums and focusing on reputable sources for information.

Diane candidly discusses the challenges of acknowledging her cancer and the psychological impact of the diagnosis. She stresses the importance of therapy and talking about one's experiences, sharing personal anecdotes that highlight the therapeutic value of open communication.

As the episode concludes, Diane offers invaluable advice for others going through similar experiences. She emphasizes the importance of following medical guidance, staying safe, and finding value in everyday life, relationships, and the simple things. Her story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of a positive outlook in the face of adversity.

Other Resources:

National Bone Marrow Transplant Link - (800) LINK-BMT, or (800) 546-5268.

nbmtLINK Website: https://www.nbmtlink.org/

nbmtLINK Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/nbmtLINK

nbmtLINK YouTube Page can be found by clicking here.

Thank you to our sponsors. This season is supported by a healthcare contribution from Sanofi  https://www.sanofi.com/