Shoulder pain can be a harbinger of a much more serious condition than a simple strain. For Eric Dillon, a Texas dad, this realization came as a shock when he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer. Dillon's journey highlights the often-overlooked connection between seemingly minor symptoms and potentially life-threatening diseases. What makes his story particularly compelling is the unexpected nature of his diagnosis and the subsequent realization that his shoulder pain was an early warning sign of cancer.
Dillon's initial visit to an orthopedic doctor for shoulder pain was met with a common response: physical therapy and stretching. For two years, this approach seemed to work, and the pain subsided. However, when the pain intensified during yard work, an MRI revealed a more serious issue. Dillon was referred to an oncologist, and within minutes of being told about his diagnosis, he was in shock. The oncologist explained that she was an orthopedic oncologist, specializing in cancer, and that his pain was likely due to multiple myeloma, a disease that affects plasma cells and can cause anemia, kidney damage, and bone damage.
What makes Dillon's story particularly interesting is the fact that multiple myeloma is often misdiagnosed as a simple injury or back pain. According to Dr. Hearn Cho, an oncologist and chief medical officer of the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, back pain is one of the most common complaints in general medicine, and the first thing a doctor might think of when someone says their back hurts is not cancer. This can make the diagnosis difficult and time-consuming, as doctors may initially attribute the pain to musculoskeletal issues or arthritis.
Dillon's experience also sheds light on the disproportionate impact of multiple myeloma on Black Americans. Despite making up only 4% of the U.S. population, Black people account for about 20% of multiple myeloma patients. This disparity is further exacerbated by the fact that Black patients tend to develop the disease at an earlier age. Dillon's cousin and an old friend from college, both of whom were diagnosed with multiple myeloma, are examples of this trend.
Dillon's response to his diagnosis was one of determination and hope. He was eager to begin treatment and was reassured by the plan offered by his doctors. Shortly after starting treatment, he was offered the chance to join a clinical trial, which he eagerly signed up for. This decision was motivated by his desire to contribute to the refinement of the trial and to make it more equitable, as Black patients are historically underrepresented in clinical trials.
Dillon's participation in the clinical trial was a significant step in his treatment journey. He underwent eight cycles of treatment over nearly a year, rearranging his work schedule to ensure he could juggle the trial and his career as an engineering consultant. He also kept a daily journal detailing the process, which helped him manage the side effects and adjust his dosage when necessary. This commitment to the trial not only helped him refine the treatment but also gave him a sense of control and understanding over his condition.
Despite the challenges, Dillon's treatment was successful. After completing the clinical trial, some cancer remained in his shoulder bone, but it was eliminated after several additional rounds of radiation. The pain in his shoulder finally went away, and he is now in remission. He regularly has appointments with his oncologist to ensure the cancer has not returned and takes one daily medication to maintain his status.
Dillon's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to our bodies and seeking medical attention when something feels wrong. It also highlights the need for greater awareness of the unusual symptoms of multiple myeloma and the tools that exist to help speed diagnoses. By sharing his story, Dillon hopes to raise awareness of the disease and encourage others to seek medical attention if they experience similar symptoms. He also wants to emphasize the importance of clinical trials and research options, particularly for underrepresented communities, as they can lead to more equitable and effective treatments.
In conclusion, Dillon's journey with multiple myeloma is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of medical research. His story serves as a reminder that even seemingly minor symptoms can be early warning signs of serious conditions, and that seeking medical attention when something feels wrong is crucial. By sharing his experience, Dillon has not only raised awareness of multiple myeloma but has also inspired others to take control of their health and seek the treatment they need.
