Defying the Odds: Woman Thrives 18 Years After Multiple Myeloma Diagnosis
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A diagnosis of multiple myeloma in 2007 initially offered Maria Garcia-Rivera a grim prognosis – a mere 10 to 12 years to live. Eighteen years later, she continues to defy expectations, a testament to medical advancements and her unwavering spirit.
Maria’s journey has been marked by both profound joy and significant challenges. She’s cherished precious time with family, including a memorable trip to Disney World, and found strength in her faith, practicing daily prayer and sharing encouragement with others.However, those years have also included two bone marrow transplants, a secondary cancer diagnosis, complex surgeries, and adapting to numerous cancer medications.
Throughout it all, the care teams at UR Medicine and Wilmot Cancer Institute in Geneva and Rochester have been instrumental in her continued well-being, providing access to innovative treatment options. Maria notably values the accessibility of expert cancer care close to home in Geneva.
“If something happens to me, I can call their office and they’ll tell me what my next step is,” she says. “I feel safe here.” The personalized attention she receives is also deeply appreciated – remembering her preference for ginger ale without ice and BBQ chips during infusions are small gestures that make a significant difference. “I’m here,” she affirms, “I thank God every day for giving me another day.”
A Multi-faceted Battle
Maria’s initial treatment in 2008 involved two bone marrow transplants coupled with chemotherapy, which initially kept the cancer at bay. However, the disease eventually returned, prompting her oncologist, Dirk Bernold, MD, to explore a range of therapies. Dr. Bernold collaborates with frank Passero, MD, a multiple myeloma specialist at Wilmot in Rochester, to ensure comprehensive care. Currently, Maria is receiving immunotherapy with teclistamab and is in remission.
“When the medicine wasn’t working, Dr. Bernold went to the next one. I’ll be in remission and, boom, he was right there with the next medication,” she recalls. “He did not wait. He just did what he had to do.”
In 2021, Maria received a second cancer diagnosis – colon cancer. This led to emergency surgery in Rochester with Fergal fleming, MD, to remove the tumor. Further complications revealed the cancer had spread to her liver, necessitating a second surgery with liver surgeon Roberto Hernandez Alejandro, MD. during that procedure, Dr. Hernandez Alejandro removed a tumor and three of the eight segments of her liver.
Remarkably, four years post-surgery, her liver is functioning perfectly and has fully regenerated.
Finding Strength in Community and Support
Despite the challenges of dual diagnoses, Maria found solace and strength in the Thrive to Survive support group in Geneva. Meeting on the first Saturday of each month, the group provides a vital network of shared experiences. “We share our problems with each other. We cry and laugh,” Maria explains. “We’ve become like a family.”
Her personal network of family and friends has also been a constant source of support. A cherished stuffed bear named Cheer,a gift from her co-workers upon her initial diagnosis in 2007,accompanies her to many infusion appointments.
Every two weeks, Maria travels to WCI geneva for her myeloma immunotherapy treatment. While acknowledging the physical toll – occasional fatigue and loss of appetite – she consistently approaches her appointments with a smile and gratitude.
“Many thanks from the bottom of my heart to all the doctors, nurses, and staff at Wilmot in Rochester and in Geneva,” Maria says. “They were caring and fantastic.They kept me safe and gave me hugs and support. They are all special to me.”
pro tip: Support groups like Thrive to Survive can provide invaluable emotional and practical assistance for cancer patients and their families.