Event Raises Awareness of Multiple Myeloma

The Multiple Reasons Cancer Walk & Festival was held on March 29 in Wimauma to raise awareness about multiple myeloma, a blood cancer which disproportionately affects Black men and women.

Moffitt patient Ivory K. Haywood speaks at the Multiple Reasons Cancer Walk & Festival.

In addition to a walk, the event featured food trucks, vendors, a DJ as well as helpful information to raise awareness about the symptoms of multiple myeloma. It was sponsored by Multiple Reasons Foundation, which supports patients and families affected by the disease and is a Moffitt Corporate Partner in Health.

Multiple myeloma currently has no cure, but Moffitt Cancer Center researchers are at the forefront of research into the disease.  A treatment called CAR T is now showing promise for some patients with multiple myeloma and is offered at Moffitt. Moffitt research also shows more work is needed to make sure it is available in all communities.

Multiple Reasons encourages people to learn more about the PROMISE study, which provides free screenings for Black people over 30 or for anyone with a close family member who has multiple myeloma or one of its precursor conditions.

Additionally, Dr. B. Lee Green, Senior Member, Health Outcomes and Behavior, delivered a presentation on health disparities and clinical trials, sharing insights and actionable strategies to reduce the cancer burden in underserved communities. Representatives from the Moffitt Foundation and our Community Outreach and Education team were also on hand, engaging attendees in conversations about cancer prevention, early detection, and available local resources to support those at risk.