Me and Myeloma: David’s story

Tell us a little bit about yourself

I’m a mountaineer and artist. I love adventure and being in the wild and remote places of the world.

Tell us about your myeloma diagnosis

I was on an epic mountain biking trip from Canada to Mexico when I started feeling severe back pain. This went on for some time before it was eventually diagnosed as myeloma. My spine was affected, and I had decompression surgery before starting on treatment. It is now over five years since my stem cell transplant.

What helped you when you were first diagnosed?

My wife Charlotte was brilliant, as were friends and family. I had a great medical team.

What helps you cope now?

I participated in the Myeloma UK charity cycle ride from London to Paris a few years ago. There were a group of other myeloma patients on the ride, and we have formed our own support network. It is good to share information with others who know what you are going through.

What advice would give to someone who is newly diagnosed?

During the five years since my stem cell transplant, I’ve had some amazing times – cycling from San Francisco to Los Angeles, climbing mountains and seeing Newcastle United win the Carabao Cup! This last six months has been hard, as I was diagnosed with leukaemia in November, and had a stroke in January. I’m undergoing treatment which has a good success rate so I am planning my next adventures.