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In this week’s blog, IMF Chairman of the Board and Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Brian G.M. Durie gives the latest COVID-19 updates: currently circulating variants, vaccines, and free COVID-19 tests to name a few. He also makes mention of a noteworthy PharmaVoice 100 awardee— Gracell Biotechnologies Founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer William (Wei) Cao, Ph.D, B.M.—and provides an update on the results of a study involving an ixazomib drug combination. Dr. Durie concludes his blog with an inspiring story about the extraordinary resilience of the 150-year-old banyan tree which was ravaged by fires recently in Lahaina, Hawaii. He hopes that myeloma patients will have the same kind of resilience in facing day-to-day challenges. READ THE BLOG.

Throughout September, we have had special guests hosting 30-minute sessions covering research, education, fundraising, and advocacy. Attend the final Facebook Live this month: With IMF Director of Public Policy and Advocacy Danielle Doheny on 9/26 at 4:00 p.m. PST/7:00 p.m. EST, you can be updated on the latest U.S. public policy developments that are important for the myeloma community. RSVP NOW.

This booklet serves as an introduction to cereblon E3 ligase modulatory drugs (CELMoDs), a new class of medications currently being studied in clinical trials for the treatment of myeloma. Although CELMoDs are building on the well-established platform of immunomodulatory agents, CELMoDs are designed to attack myeloma in a novel way. CELMoDs not only kill myeloma cells directly but also by engaging other immune cells. In addition, CELMoDs can be used even in myeloma patients who have relapsed after treatment with immunomodulatory agents. Two promising CELMoDs in clinical trials are iberdomide and mezigdomide, and both drugs are taken orally (by mouth). DOWNLOAD NOW.  

The M-Power Tampa Community Workshop will take place on September 23, 2023, in Tampa, Florida. Join us at the GZL Educational Resource Center venue (5123 East Martin Luther King Jr., Blvd.) from 10:00 a.m. to 12:40 p.m. ET. During this workshop, you'll delve into how myeloma impacts the Black community. Top myeloma experts and key opinion leaders, including Dr. Joseph Mikhael (Chief Medical Officer, International Myeloma Foundation), Yelak Biru (President & CEO, International Myeloma Foundation), Dr. Brandon Blue (Moffitt Cancer Center), Dr. Kenneth Shain (Moffitt Cancer Center), Beth Finley-Oliver (IMF Nurse Leadership Board), and Gary and Nadia Lambert (Patient-Care Partner Team) will be sharing their experiences. 

Not only will you learn from these renowned experts, but you'll also have the chance to ask questions and gain valuable insights. The workshop will conclude with a meet and greet, where you'll receive complimentary IMF gifts. REGISTER NOW.

Join us for the "Living Well With Myeloma" webinar on October 12, 2023, at 4:00 p.m. PST with Dr. Urvi A. Shah. As myeloma survival rates rise, discover how nutrition and lifestyle interventions can further improve outcomes. Dr. Shah will delve into the scientific evidence behind dietary guidance, drawing from epidemiologic studies and clinical trials. Learn how diet influences cancer through the microbiome, metabolism, and the immune system. The webinar will wrap up with practical tips to enhance dietary habits. Engage in a summary discussion and a Live Q&A, gaining valuable insights to empower yourself. Register now for this informative event! REGISTER NOW.

Myeloma patients on Medicare: The HealthWell Foundation has opened a fund to help with co-pays/premiums. The maximum award level is $12,000, covering various treatments. Check eligibility and apply now.

The Patient Advocate Foundation Medical Insurance Premium Assistance Co-Pay Relief Fund is open. Don't miss out on support for co-pays, co-insurance, deductibles, and medical insurance premiums. Apply Now.

Visit the IMF Financial Resources to view a comprehensive list of programs that provide financial assistance. LEARN MORE.