On May 2, I set out for my second moving mountains for multiple myeloma hike, and man, do I feel blessed. I was accepted on the Mt. Fuji Moving Mountains team in January 2017 where I had my first experience as a team member. My mom is a myeloma patient and so, this hike for me was very personal. I quickly felt connected to the team and was surprised to hear how openly everyone shared their stories with one another. Before my involvement with the MMRF, my mom’s diagnosis and treatment were not a big topic of discussion; in fact, it was something we avoided talking about all together. So, being in a room full of patients like my mom and caregivers like myself made me realize that it is okay to talk about multiple myeloma.

Now, a year later I am an Endurance Events Manager for the MMRF leading the Havasu Falls Trek and I know first-hand how important it is to talk about multiple myeloma. When you say yes to learning about the disease that was once a terrifying diagnosis is surrounded by hopeful progress, new treatment options and extended life expectancies. The MMRF is committed to getting the right treatment plan, and the right drug to each and every patient, right now.

My mom is fortunate to have qualified for a clinical trial that is funded by the MMRF. Talk about life changing. While it seems impossible to be able to give back to the MMRF, everything I feel it has given my family and I, I can continue the work that has inspired me to be a better daughter and caregiver. By leading this Havasu trek, bringing together five patients, a nurse and caregivers, I am showing the next wave of patients and caregivers that there is a silver lining to multiple myeloma, the silver lining is the MMRF.