A word from our CEO

October has been full of important advocacy efforts, knowledge sharing, and community spirit, keeping the Myeloma Canada team and our incredible volunteers very busy. I am inspired by the drive of everyone I’m fortunate to work with, and wanted to share a few things we’ve been discussing. These include: 

• the overwhelming success of this year’s edition of the Multiple Myeloma March, 

• our meaningful presence at the International Myeloma Society’s annual meeting, 

• and a gentle reminder to take care of ourselves as we head into the fall flu season. 

Everyone at Myeloma Canada is committed to helping the Canadian myeloma community get access to the best care and are incredibly excited about what the future holds. 

That said, I know that the unfortunate news that the pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance (pCPA) negotiations over the reimbursement of Carvykti® (CAR T-cell therapy) have terminated without agreement, hits our community hard. (Click here for a brief explanation). CAR T is a source of hope for so many of you, and I want you to know that everyone at Myeloma Canada understands the gravity of this decision and is committed to doing everything we can to have this therapy made available to Canadians who need it. For more information about Myeloma Canada’s stance, please see our press release.

If you want to take action, join our email writing campaign.

Another successful year for the Multiple Myeloma March! 

International Myeloma Society annual meeting: Canada at the global table 

Earlier this month, Myeloma Canada proudly participated in the International Myeloma Society’s annual meeting, a global gathering of researchers, clinicians, and advocates working to transform the future of myeloma care. 

Here’s what we accomplished: 

• I had the honour of speaking on a symposium panel with Dr Lisa Leypoldt, sharing the importance of patient engagement in myeloma treatment decisions. 

• The Myeloma Canada booth on the trade floor staffed by volunteers, offered resources and represented the strength of our community. 

• We supported several Canadian researchers in presenting their work through poster sessions — proof that innovation is thriving here at home. This support came via our Dr Andrew Belch MEET grant. 

• We met with industry leaders to build relationships that will help us collaborate on programs in the future that will in no doubt benefit our community. 

• And we hosted our own International Patient & Caregiver Conference, allowing us to exchange ideas and learn with international myeloma experts and patient organizations. 

Canada’s presence was felt. And more importantly, it was respected as a key player in the global effort to improve myeloma treatment and one day find a cure. 

Staying safe this season – COVID, flu, and myeloma 

As the days grow shorter and we settle into fall, we’re seeing a rise in COVID cases. For those living with myeloma, staying healthy is critical. 

Please take every precaution to protect yourself: 

• Review our online COVID resources. 

• Stay up to date with vaccinations. 

• Practice safe habits in public spaces like handwashing, mask wearing, and social distancing. 

• If you are prone to infections or take a myeloma therapy that increases risk of infection, discuss immunoglobulin replacement therapy with your healthcare team. 

And remember, if you have questions about COVID, the flu, myeloma, or the resources available to you, reach out to MC Assistance, our free infoline. Our Myeloma Information Specialists are here to help you find the information you need to stay safe

Together, we keep moving 

Every day, we’re driven by a clear purpose: to improve the lives of those affected by myeloma. Whether we’re walking together in communities or sharing insights on global platforms, every little bit contributes to this goal. I am so grateful for my team, and for all of you! Thank you for being part of this important work. Together, we’re building a brighter future. 

Warmly, 
Martine