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Shandra is
Blood Cancer United

Shandra holding balloons with letter 40, Multiple Myeloma survivor

I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma (MM) two years ago. I had never heard of this cancer until I was diagnosed. I found out I had cancer when my T2 vertebra had fractured in my back, and they called the fracture a pathological fracture, meaning an injury didn’t cause it. Every test was run, and it was confirmed that I had cancer. Still in denial, I wanted a second opinion. A second opinion was done, and I had to accept it because I have children ages 19, 10, and 6. I wanted to be here with them as long as possible. Having myeloma hasn’t been easy, but so far, I haven’t been depressed about it because I am still living my life and traveling with my kids. Depression wasn’t an option for me. I believe everything happens for a reason, good and bad. I changed my mindset, and I have been kicking myeloma’s tail for two years. I will be celebrating my 40th birthday on Wednesday, March 30, and I have reached my first remission! I hope it lasts a long time.

Shandra

Multiple myeloma (MM)

We are Blood Cancer United.

Everyone affected by blood cancer—patients, survivors, caregivers, researchers, advocates, fundraisers, everyone—has a story. Share yours.
Headshot of Glenis, Myeloma Survivor

Glenis

Multiple myeloma

Angela

multiple myeloma (MM)

Debra

multiple myeloma (MM)

Paulava

multiple myeloma (MM)

Ralph

multiple myeloma (MM)

Lisa

light chain multiple myeloma (LCMM)

Kimberly

multiple myeloma (MM)

Tony

multiple myeloma (MM)

Jaime, Myeloma Survivor, photographed in athletic gear

Jamie

Myeloma Survivor

Jeffrey

multiple myeloma (MM)

Crystal Bolin Photography

Eydie

multiple myeloma (MM)

Ed

multiple myeloma (MM)

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is now Blood Cancer United. Learn more.