BISMARCK, N.D. – Mayor John Warford has proclaimed March 2014 “Myeloma Awareness Month.” Myeloma, also called multiple myeloma, is an incurable cancer of cells in the bone marrow that affects blood cell production and can lead to anemia, infections, bone lesions, vertebral compressions, osteoporosis, severe pain and kidney dysfunction, according to the International Myeloma Foundation (IMF).
“We appreciate Mayor Warford’s help in raising awareness of myeloma,” said Shirley Jonas, leader of the North Dakota Multiple Myeloma Support Group. “This recognition is important to me because I feel it is important to inform the public of this type of cancer as it is being diagnosed more every year,” said Jonas. “I also want Myeloma patients in North Dakota to know that they are not in this journey alone and they can be a part of our support group and may call to talk about any questions or concerns they have about this cancer. Knowledge is Power!” “Our support group is a place where people with myeloma and their families can learn about the newest treatments available and gain support and education from those who have been living with the disease,” said Jonas.
Myeloma currently affects more than 100,000 people in the United States, with an estimated 20,000 new cases diagnosed each year. Myeloma is increasing in numbers and is becoming more common in younger patients, with possible links to environmental toxins.
News correspondent Tom Brokaw recently revealed he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. His doctors are optimistic about the outcome of the treatment he is receiving, and Brokaw said he remains “the luckiest guy I know.”
Myeloma Awareness Month is sponsored by the International Myeloma Foundation, the leader in global collaborative myeloma research. The IMF brings together the world’s leading myeloma experts through the International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) and is charting a path to a cure through the foundation’s signature project, the Black Swan Research Initiative.®
For more information, contact Shirley Jonas at: (701)527-6529 or Email: [email protected].
ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL MYELOMA FOUNDATION
Celebrating its 23rd anniversary, the International Myeloma Foundation reaches more than 240,000 members in 120 countries worldwide. A 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of myeloma patients and their families, the IMF focuses on four key areas: research, education, support, and advocacy. To date, the IMF has conducted more than 250 educational seminars worldwide, maintains a world-renowned hotline, and established the International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG), a collaborative research initiative focused on improving myeloma treatment options for patients. The IMF can be reached at (800) 452-CURE (2873). The global website is www.myeloma.org. Follow the IMF on Twitter at @IMFmyeloma