Jeff’s Story

Site created on February 26, 2018

Welcome to our CaringBridge website. We are using it to keep family and friends updated in one place. We appreciate your support and words of hope and encouragement. Thank you for visiting.

Jeff was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma on November 1, 2017. It was quite a shock to us and our family. 

What started as a small lump on his scalp in late summer continued to grow until October, when his primary doctor referred him to plastic surgery to remove what we thought was a cyst or lipoma. It turned out to be a plasmacytoma, and after a week of tests, it was confirmed to be a result of multiple myeloma. Jeff also had myeloma “spots” along his spine. He had spent the last few months thinking he had a backache from yard work, hobby farm activities, and splitting wood. He was started on medication immediately and we were able to watch the lump on his scalp decrease and his back pain improve. This regimen didn’t seem to improve his blood work though, so he was switched to a heavier hitting regimen. This regimen has had a remarkable result! The lump and backache have disappeared and most of his labwork is within normal limits and continuing to head in the right direction. 

Thankfully, all of his treatment has been comprised of immunotherapy, so he has had mild side effects. He is occasionally fatigued, but continues to be the positive, active, and amazing father, husband, son, brother, and friend.

Advances in this disease have been moving fast and we have every reason to believe and trust in the incredible care he is receiving both locally and at the Mayo Clinic. 
We have been overwhelmed by the amount of support and prayers we have received from our family, friends, co-workers, and community. 

Anyone who knows Jeff knows he is a fighter! Please continue to support, encourage, and cheer him on!

Newest Update

MRD NEGATIVE!

Journal entry by Ashley Schliep —

Hey friends!
Just a quick note to update you all that Jeff had a bone marrow biopsy this past Wednesday, and we received the complete results along with a call and message from Dr. Nikcevich today with the best news that Jeff remains minimal residual disease (MRD) negative. 
This means that out of an over 5 million (!!!) cell sample, not one single cancer cell was found! It is not an exaggeration that this test has the capability detect just one cancer cell out of millions. Jeff’s actual result is 0.0000. His actual percentage of normal cells is 100%. The interpretation states, “No monotypic plasma cells detected - MRD negative.” 
This may bring up conversation about again reducing some of medications/treatment regimen, but we’ll cross that bridge when we get to it. 
For now, we’ll keep on keepin’ on!
Happy holiday season to you and yours! Stay healthy. 
Read More of the journal titled "MRD NEGATIVE!"
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Jeff Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Jeff's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?

Leave a comment of support for Jeff

Did you know? A quick comment, no matter the situation (positive or negative), can boost morale by 28.2%.

Comments Hide comments

Load more comments
Read More Journal Entries

Show Your Support

See the Ways to Help page to get even more involved.

Personal Fundraiser
Support Links
Helpful Requests
Go to Ways to Help
SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top