My name is Wouter, I am living in The Netherlands, and I am 55 years old. In March 2024, I was diagnosed with myeloma, which turned my world upside down. One of the biggest challenges I faced was the physical pain caused by my broken vertebrae. Learning to manage that pain while also coming to terms with the fact that myeloma is incurable was overwhelming at first. However, over time, I realised that while I could not change my diagnosis, I could change how I approached life with it.

One of the most significant shifts I made was in my lifestyle. I stopped consuming alcohol and other intoxicants, choosing instead to focus on what made me feel stronger and more balanced. Meditation and yoga became essential tools for managing stress and improving my overall well-being. I also started taking regular walks, which not only helped my body but also cleared my mind. These small but meaningful changes gave me a sense of control over my health and helped me cope with the uncertainty that comes with myeloma.

I quickly discovered the power of community. The support from my husband, family and friends was immense, and their presence reminded me that I was not alone in this journey. But what truly made a difference was connecting with fellow myeloma patients through the patient organisation Hematon. Sharing experiences, struggles and even small victories with people who truly understood what I was going through gave me strength and reassurance.

One of the most important lessons I have learned is that “incurable” does not mean “deadly.” Medical research is advancing rapidly, and new treatments are constantly being developed. Myeloma may be a lifelong challenge, but it is one that can be managed. I choose to focus on hope, on the progress being made and on the life I still get to live, fully and meaningfully.

Check Faces of myeloma series to read more stories.