I was diagnosed with Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) in November 2013 at the age of 63. I was in watch-and-wait mode. Then, in August 2016, a blood test revealed IgM, kappa monoclonal gammopathy with an M-spike with anemia, and neutropenia. By the end of the month, it was confirmed that the adenopathy was worsening. I was admitted to the hospital with neutropenic fever and a pseudomonal infection resulting in septic shock. I was treated with IV antibiotics and two red blood cell infusions for the worsening anemia.
I went through six cycles of chemotherapy. After completing chemo, I discovered Pickleball, and it has helped me regain my health and well-being!
In November 2018, I was diagnosed with a malignant melanoma that required a skin graft harvest. In April 2019, I received radiation for recurrent squamous cell carcinoma.
In October 2024, a tumor at the base of my spine was verified as WM cells. I again was in watch-and-wait mode, and continued with a slow weight loss. In January 2025, I received 12 rounds of low-dose radiation targeting the WM presacral tumor. By May 2025, a PET scan revealed that the tumor was minimal. My doctor continues to monitor my increased fatigue and slow weight loss.
And I’m still playing Pickleball three times a week!
Ron
Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM)
