My journey began 17.5 years ago at the age of 43. Intense back pain caused me to make some changes as I was "aging."  Weight loss, yoga, and chiropractics started but there was no change.  Very quickly things escalated and the back pain became unbearable.  I was a nurse practitioner, and single mom of four teenagers.  After many ER visits, a kind doc finally suggested I be tested for multiple myeloma.  I was admitted, had surgery within days, and began treatment.  Tests revealed that I had eight back fractures.  I was unable to walk.  Throughout the following year, I had surgery, a stem cell transplant, physical therapy, and 17 hospitalizations to keep me alive.  I made it!!!! , Recently< I celebrated my 60th birthday!  I have been on chemotherapy of some type for all these years.  My children are successful adults in their thirties and I am one grateful mom to have seen their accomplishments. To date, Ive been on six different lines of therapy, have fractures in my sternum (three), more back fractures, and a clavicle fracture. There are holes in all of my bones.  But I can walk, and I enjoy each day I am given.  Gildas Club has given me hope, and some of the most wonderful friends.  I hope to continue this journey for a while longer.  Thanks for your support.