Cheryl Durham

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As many of you know I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma 10 years ago.  At the time my condition was stable and required no treatment.  I was monitored closely for several years.  At that time I received many consults and second opinions.  It was very difficult to come to terms with the fact that I had a cancer that didn't need treatment.  


After several years of monitoring it was determined that I needed to start treatment.  I was started on chemotherapy.  I feared it would be an terrible experience however,  I went several years taking medications with very few side effects.  I was able to continue working as a RN for Baptist Health Home.  Baptist was wonderful allowing me a flexible schedule and sometimes a treatment in between patients.  My territory was Oldham County so I spent many days driving around seeing patients in the Oldham County area.  Jim and I realized that eventually I may need a transplant so after much thought and prayer we decided to move to Oldham County where we would no longer have the burden of private tuition.  This decision made it much easier when I needed to stop working outside the home.  


In 2014 I underwent tandem stem cell transplants in Little Rock Ark.  It was a tough year spending several months in Arkansas.  The transplants were a success with only a trace of myeloma remaining.  I was started on maintenance chemotherapy.  Over the years the maintenance has been changed several times as the disease becomes more resistant.  Luckily, research is constantly coming up with new medications and combinations to treat myeloma.  


Most recently I went to a follow up visit with my myeloma specialist in Arkansas and it was determined I needed a more aggressive treatment.  I spent several weeks in Little Rock while I received chemotherapy and recovered.  I am so happy to now be home!!  


At this time it is unclear what the next plan will be.  I am praying for Gods guidance with the doctors as we decide the best course.  We are working on getting into one of the many Car T clinical trials for multiple myeloma all over the country.  These trials are very competitive with a list of patients and only a few openings a month.  We are also considering another stem cell transplant.  


Next week I'll be heading to Chicago for a consultation for one of the Car T trials.  


I am so thankful for all the prayers and support from my wonderful community, friends and family.  It has amazed me all the calls, text messages, cards, gifts and meals I have received.  I feel so loved and can't thank people enough for everything they have done for me and my family.  God is amazing and I know he has a plan!  I pray his plan is for me to be cured of this year!!