Three years ago I was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma. My Internist noticed a protein spike in my blood work during a routine annual exam. I was at peak physical performance having just retired from my career and enjoying hiking the beautiful hill country in Texas. The news came as a huge shock. At first glance, my options looked frightening, as there was and still is no cure. Thankfully, I found access to an experienced team who were able to present viable treatment options. After a battery of tests, immunotherapy, stem cell transplant, chemotherapy and maintenance therapy (and tons of prayers), I am grateful to report my cancer is in remission!

Recently, I had witnessed friends who had suffered and died from Myeloma (and other blood cancers), so the need to accelerate the research in search of a cure has been in the forefront of my mind. During my recovery, I read about Kathi Gusti, founder and survivor of Myeloma for more than 20 years. That caught my attention! Kathi has beaten all odds and has dedicated herself to escalating Myeloma research.
She founded the MMRF and has served as a source of inspiration to me.

This is my second detour with cancer, as I am also a breast cancer survivor. I firmly believe God has guided me through my journey and has led me to incredible people who have served as mentors to follow. Discovering new therapies has also fostered good reason for renewed hope. That is exactly what the MMRF seeks to provide for cancer victims, new trails to lead individuals in the right direction to beat this insidious disease.

Physically training and being able to prepare for this amazing trek through Alaska is a gift, one I no longer take for granted. Climbing new heights in pursuit of changing the course of this relentless cancer is a worthwhile challenge I am fortunate to accept. I look forward to collaborating with fellow teammates who share the determination to make the trails ahead a little less treacherous for those who may follow.