Eric Dillon’s Journey with Multiple Myeloma: From Pain to Remission

When Eric Dillon experienced shoulder pain, he initially thought it was a strained rotator cuff. The diagnosis by an orthopedic doctor seemed to confirm this, but physical therapy only provided temporary relief. Over two years, the pain became manageable until a severe episode occurred in May 2024 while gardening at his Houston home. A subsequent visit to the orthopedist and an MRI revealed something alarming, leading to a referral to an oncologist.

Dillon recalls being surprised by his oncologist’s words: I walked in, and she was like, ‘You know why you’re here?’ I was like, ‘I’ve got a referral from another doctor to see you,’ he said. She was like, ‘I’m an orthopedic oncologist … I do cancer.’ I was like, ‘Wait, what?’ Tests soon confirmed Dillon had multiple myeloma, a cancer affecting plasma cells. His wife quickly secured an appointment at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. Further tests confirmed the diagnosis, and Dillon’s pain was identified as an early warning sign.

Understanding Multiple Myeloma

Dr. Hearn Cho, chief medical officer at the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, explains that multiple myeloma impacts plasma cells and can disrupt normal blood formation, leading to anemia, kidney damage, and high calcium levels. It often damages bones, which was the cause of Dillon’s shoulder pain. Dr. Cho notes it’s common for multiple myeloma to be misdiagnosed as injuries since symptoms like back pain are prevalent and typically associated with less serious conditions.

The disease’s impact is disproportionately felt by Black Americans. Although they comprise about 4% of the U.S. population, they make up roughly 20% of multiple myeloma patients. Additionally, Black patients often develop the disease earlier than others.

Treating Multiple Myeloma

Eager to start treatment, Dillon welcomed the structured approach and soon joined a clinical trial. Being in a clinical trial, to me, was a plus. It made me feel a lot better, he stated. He was motivated to contribute to making clinical trials more inclusive, addressing the historical underrepresentation of Black patients. Over nearly a year, Dillon completed eight cycles of treatment, adapting his work schedule to accommodate the trial and keeping a journal to document his journey. Minor side effects led to dosage adjustments, improving the trial’s outcomes.

Despite completing the trial, traces of cancer remained in Dillon’s shoulder, which were eradicated following additional radiation treatments. It was just tremendous to be pain-free and moving forward, said Dillon.

Looking Ahead

Now in remission, Dillon continues regular oncologist appointments and takes daily medication to maintain his status. While stem cell replacement remains an option, its requirement for isolation has led him to delay the procedure, opting to focus on family celebrations and time with loved ones. It’s just spending more time with the family, enjoying the family, Dillon expressed.

Determined to raise awareness about multiple myeloma and expedite diagnosis processes, Dillon actively collaborates with the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation. He emphasizes the importance of knowing available clinical trials and research opportunities. This is not one of those cancers that there’s no treatment for, he reassured. The future is bright. The opportunities are bright.