A Year of Resilience: Looking Back After a Myeloma Diagnosis

Ronald Chin received a diagnosis of multiple myeloma in January 2017 and has been in remission since October 2023. Catch up on all of Ronald's blogs here!

Looking back on 2024, I am struck by how much the year has been a milestone in my life. Seven years have passed since I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma and was given the hope of returning to my daily routine within a year. It has been a grueling journey, but now I can finally say that I feel like my old self again, even though my new normal differs from before.

A pivotal moment in my journey came when I received a phone call to do an in-person presentation for the Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art in March. The excitement and nervousness bubbled inside me as I prepared to speak about Feng Shui, my first talk since 2016. Memories flooded back of my previous speaking engagement in Tiradentes, Brazil, where I had felt fragile on the stage, and my bones weakened from the disease. But now, standing before an eager audience, I felt anxious and alive. My adrenaline surged through my veins, propelling me confidently and enthusiastically. Again, I am grateful for this opportunity to share my knowledge, and it solidified my passion for public speaking.

The news of my successful lecture spread, and I was soon invited to present for the Chinatown Rotary Club in April. As I walked into the packed restaurant, the excitement in the air was palpable. The room was buzzing with energy and anticipation. Despite feeling tired before the presentation, my fervor kicked in as soon as I stepped in front of the room. All the guests hung on my every word as I shared my insights and experiences. Just when I thought it couldn't get any better, the Q&A session surpassed all expectations. The audience's engagement and insightful questions left me energized and grateful for the opportunity to share my knowledge on the topic.

Following the presentation, I was approached by a journalist named Mengxi. She exuded a calm and curious energy that immediately drew me in. She listened to my story and wanted to capture it for a documentary she was working on. Without hesitation, I agreed, intrigued by the opportunity to share my story. Over the next few months, Mengxi became a frequent companion, following me around as we delved into my world. She captured footage of me in my office sanctuary, at a physical therapy session demonstrating my progress against the effects of multiple myeloma, a feng shui consultation where ancient traditions were woven into modern-day practices and even capturing a discussion for feng shui ideas to improve NYC Chinatown with the CEO of the Chinatown Partnership. The experience was not only a boost to my self-esteem but also filled with meaningful conversations and moments of reflection.

In support of the International Myeloma Foundation fundraiser, amid the sea of colorful t-shirts and lively chatter, I found my fellow walkers from the Bloodhounds (get it... blood cancer, bloodhounds hunting… for a cure!). Together, we trekked along the Hudson River for one and a half miles, passing iconic New York City landmarks. After the fantastic event, I was invited to join the group for a delicious brunch on the bustling streets of the Upper West Side. As we chatted and laughed over our meal, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the camaraderie and sense of accomplishment that filled the air. I did a total of six and a half miles that day – an incredible accomplishment.

The crisp autumn air felt invigorating as I took my first solo taxi ride to the MET for the opening exhibition of “Materialized Space: The Architecture of Paul Rudolph.” As the car service drove me to the museum, the city buzzed around me, with people rushing by and car horns honking in a symphony of chaos.

Working for the late master Paul Rudolph was both a privilege and a challenge. It brought back memories of a time filled with emotions and heartfelt bonds with friends and colleagues. But it also reminded me of the pressures and demands of being under his tutelage. Seeing familiar faces from that era stirred up a mix of nostalgia and warm memories within me.

Another memorable moment was taking the subway for the first time since 2019!

It began in the afternoon when my friend Seth picked me up at my apartment. We put my rollator in the trunk of a taxi to the Lower East Side to see an architectural exhibition.

After enjoying drawings and talking to the gallery owner, I took Seth to soak in the sights and sounds of Chinatown. We visited the largest Buddhist temple in NYC and wandered through narrow streets lined with colorful storefronts and the aroma of steaming dumplings and fragrant teas wafting through the air. Eventually, we made our way to the E line from Spring Street to 34th Street; Seth kindly carried my rollator down the stairs while I followed behind, settling into the last car as it rattled along the tracks. The subway ride was exhilarating for me, with the rhythmic chugging of the train and the murmur of voices filling the car. As we arrived at our destination, it was a perfect afternoon spent exploring a bustling part of the city with a dear friend by my side.

After a long and challenging journey, 2024 is finally the year of my rebirth. With my illness in remission and newfound confidence to explore on my own, I eagerly anticipate the upcoming Chinese New Year of the Snake. The vibrant colors and scents of the forthcoming celebration fill my senses, reminding me of the endless possibilities that lay ahead. This year marks a new beginning and a chance to rediscover myself and embrace all life offers. As I bask in the energy of this auspicious year, I feel renewed and ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth.

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