Kristina Mitchell

On February 28th I went in to have some labs drawn for my endocrinologist. The nurse asked if I wanted to get all labs done. I didn’t even recall the other order in there but said, “yes, just do them all.” I had been feeling worn out for some time. I just thought it was from just having my 3rd baby less than 16 months prior.


The next day my primary doctor called and wanted to see me immediately. I went in that afternoon for a physical. She explained she was concerned with how low all my levels were and told me I was neutropenic. I had never heard that word before. She then handed me a referral to the hematology/ oncology department and wanted me to be seen ASAP. It was a smack in the face. I immediately started crying and couldn’t believe I was about to walk into a cancer center.


I’ve had many people I love die of cancer so it has always been my worse fear. By this time I was sobbing uncontrollably. The social worker hugged me and offered her ear to listen. The front desk and most employees were at lunch. They had me sit down so they could get me an appointment. Nicest people ever. The doctor heard me crying and wanted to see me right then so he could ease my mind.


We scheduled a bone marrow biopsy and tried for a pet scan, that was denied. We did lots of labs or blood work. The days felt like weeks leading up to my follow up appointment on March 9th. I wasn’t googling or looking up any of the results. My husband, family, and friends knew more about what I was going to find out than I did. On March 9th I was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma.


Multiple Myeloma is a cancer that forms in a type of white blood cell called a plasma cell. Plasma cells help you fight infections by making antibodies that recognize and attack germs. Multiple myeloma causes cancer cells to accumulate in the bone marrow, where they crowd out healthy blood cells. Most people who get MM are 60+ years old and African American. The doctors were baffled by the blood results.


We have been to 2 MM specialist and are currently under the care of Dr. Krina Patel at MD Anderson Cancer center in Houston, TX. She has me on KRD regiment which is the standard of care. We are currently flying to and from Texas to receive the best help possible where we are covered with our insurance plan. Seems silly but Siteman is BJC and unfortunately we aren’t covered through them.


I am not only going to win this fight for myself, but for my kids! I have faith in god and an amazing husband and family to help us get through this hurdle that the devil has sent our way. Prayers are always welcomed. 🙏🏼♥️👊🏼