Bob Munro, a father with an incurable blood cancer called myeloma, has experienced a newfound hope after participating in a “miracle” clinical trial. After being diagnosed in 2012, Bob exhausted all treatment options by early 2022, enduring numerous fractures and taking approximately 100,000 tablets. However, in February 2023, he joined a clinical trial which brought him back from the brink of despair. Although he faced difficult side effects, Bob is now in remission for the first time in 11 years.
To celebrate this remarkable turn of events, Bob plans to raise £100,000 by cycling 300 miles from Pisa to Rome in just four days. He will be accompanied by 37 friends and family members, all aiming to support Myeloma UK, a blood cancer charity. Bob estimates that he has taken one tablet for each pound raised so far.
Despite his own success, Bob recognizes the importance of continued research for myeloma patients. Myeloma UK funds crucial research trials and ensures that new drugs can reach patients as quickly as possible. Bob is passionate about fundraising for Myeloma UK because they advocate for the patient’s voice and have the potential to bring hope to those in need.
Myeloma affects the bone marrow and currently impacts over 24,000 individuals in the UK. It is a relapsing-remitting cancer, meaning that remission periods can occur following treatment, but the disease will eventually return. Detecting myeloma is challenging as symptoms such as back pain, fatigue, and recurring infections are often attributed to general aging or minor conditions.
Although myeloma remains incurable, it is treatable in most cases. Treatment aims to control the disease and improve the quality of life for patients. Bob encourages continued research and advocacy to ensure that patients like him can benefit from potential cures in the future.
Sources:
– Myeloma UK
– NHS Website
