Eric Dillon experienced mild discomfort in his shoulder over the years, attributing it to a possible rotator cuff strain. Initially, his orthopedist supported this presumption. Physical therapy appeared effective, and the pain mostly subsided. However, in May 2024, while engaging in yard work at his Houston home, intense pain surfaced.
Dillon revisited the orthopedist. An MRI revealed alarming results. He found himself referred to an orthopedic oncologist, unfamiliar with the term. Exploring the connection to cancer became a revelation during his appointment. Tests unveiled that Dillon had multiple myeloma, a blood cancer. Swift action from his wife secured an appointment at MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston. There, further tests confirmed the diagnosis, and a treatment plan emerged. Dillon realized his persistent shoulder pain foreshadowed the illness.
What is multiple myeloma?
Dr. Hearn Cho, a chief medical officer at the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, explains that multiple myeloma targets plasma cells. These cancerous cells can disrupt normal blood formation, leading to anemia, kidney damage, and higher calcium levels. The disease also affects bone integrity, explaining Dillon’s shoulder pain. Cho notes misdiagnoses are frequent, often mistaken for physical injuries due to common symptoms like back pain.
Dillon knew the disease from personal connections; his cousin battled it, and a college friend recently faced it. Increasing public awareness of its prevalence among Black Americans added context, with Black individuals making up 20% of multiple myeloma patients despite being 4% of the population. Black patients also typically encounter the disease earlier.
Dillon eagerly embarked on treatment, finding comfort in the structured plan. Shortly after, a clinical trial opportunity arose, which he accepted immediately. He found reassurance in participating, appreciating the control and understanding it offered. Additionally, Dillon aimed to address historical underrepresentation of Black patients in clinical trials.
Dillon navigated eight cycles of treatment over about a year, adjusting his work schedule to accommodate both his career and the trial. He maintained a daily journal throughout the process. Occasional minor side effects prompted dosage adjustments, contributing to refining the trial. Ultimately, radiation treatments eliminated remaining cancer from his shoulder.
Today, Dillon remains in remission, attending regular oncologist appointments and taking daily medication. While considering stem cell replacement in the future, he currently opts against it due to isolation concerns. Instead, he embraces time with his family, celebrating his new grandchild.
Dillon advocates for awareness on multiple myeloma’s unusual symptoms and advancements in speeding diagnoses. He collaborates with the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, encouraging his recently diagnosed friend to join in raising awareness and exploring available clinical trials or research avenues.
Dillon emphasizes the availability of treatments for multiple myeloma, projecting optimism for the future: “The opportunities are bright.”