Hi Jen,
My dad was diagnosed with mm about 4 months ago and is just about to start his 4th month of chemo. He also had light chains and lyric lesions in his spine, hips and ribs. The chemo makes him really weak and tired and he's also taking thalidomide and steroids which seem to cause symptoms worse than the chemo. He gets really depressed, angry and very snappy when he takes the steroids and has to sleep quite a bit. He's also started treatment to strengthen his bones which also makes his bones hurt so he increases his pain killers for a few days around the treatment. In the first 3 months of treatment, his light chains have decreased significantly, the pain in his bones has improved and he can now walk a bit without his walking frame. They said he will need a min of 6 months treatment and going by the past 3 months, it's not an easy journey but it's doing it's job.
I know how you feel as its such a shock but I felt better after doing lots of research and finding out as much as I could about the disease, at least you know what your dealing with. My dad was very upset after his diagnosis but 3 months on, he has become more positive as the treatment is showing signs of improvement in
His general health. I hope things are going well for you and your dad too…..chin up and keep positive, it definitely helps.
X
