No one is ready for the initial shock that comes with a diagnosis of cancer. The feelings that accompany a cancer diagnosis may be difficult to imagine beforehand, challenging to process as you hear and attempt to accept the news, and impossible to appreciate fully if you are not the individual who has just been diagnosed.

One of the many things that you probably did after receiving a diagnosis of multiple myeloma was to select a doctor and care team. They helped you to learn about multiple myeloma and how to navigate the complexities of treatment decision-making.

Highlights from the 2018 American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting

Patient Advocates Jack Aiello and Nancy Kaufmann stress the importance of communication and share tips to stay in sync with the treatment team.

Jack Aiello, 23-year multiple myeloma survivor who had 3 transplants, describes what to expect from a transplant, telling patients to get second opinions before deciding to have a transplant.

Here is an overview of vital things to consider after being diagnosed with multiple myeloma, from selecting your treatment team to understanding your insurance plan and costs.

Jack Aiello, multiple myeloma survivor, looks at the importance of patient advocacy and breaks down the different areas of advocacy.

Jack Aiello enthusiastically discusses the additions of newer medicines that were FDA approved in 2015, and why patients need to be aware of them.

Jack Aiello talks about the importance of providers helping patients understand the value of markers and how that can positively affect the latter's compliance.

Jack Aiello offers insights into oral medications as opposed to other treatments and why orals can be more challenging due to potential patient issues.

Jack Aiello shares his experience on orals, and the significance of informing patients of the side effects and mitigating them.

This article summarizes the views of the patients regarding their experiences with current treatments and other issues related to cancer care.