I entered 2020 with plans that involved me stepping outside of my comfort zone. Some of my goals were to try new things, to get out more to enjoy enriching experiences, and to have some fun along the way. I am happy to say that many of my goals have come to fruition. I could have never imagined that experiencing new things like social distancing, wearing masks, having virtual family gatherings and virtual meetings would be considered the norm but here we are and here I am, way outside of my comfort zone.
As I continue to embrace new things, I look forward to being a part of the upcoming 62nd American Society of Hematology annual meeting. This year’s meeting will be virtual and will take place December 4-8. Although I do not know what to expect, I am sure it will still hold all the latest and greatest news about the different aspects of multiple myeloma.
This will be my third year attending the annual meetings. Each year, I come away with greater knowledge and understanding of multiple myeloma. This year, I hope to continue learning more about bi-specific T-cell engagers (BiTE) therapy in relapse/refractory myeloma.
I am thankful for the opportunity to be a part of #ASH20 and a part of the International Myeloma Foundation (IMF) Support Group Leader Patient Representative Team. As a team we will be sharing our experiences via blogs and tweets. I am sure this new virtual ASH experience will be just as fulfilling as those in the past. I will miss the in-person interacting and sunny San Diego but not the early mornings and miles of walking.
Heartfelt thanks to the IMF and the pharmaceutical company partner sponsors that provide resources to make it possible for the Support Group Leader Patient Representatives to attend #ASH20.
Valarie Traynham, Aurora, IL Multiple Myeloma Networking Group