Anyone with Myeloma experiences?

Hey, just getting started with this, I was diagnosed with MM about a month ago and have pretty normal labs except for the protein. am to start thalidomide and dexametasone tomorrow and then a stem cell transplant in june or so. I am a bit curious about the transplant - I understand how they get the stem cells but do they then give you chemo to wipe out the marrow and then give you the stem cells. what was the experence like? Would be interested in hearing of your experence.

Hey, I was found to have multiple myeloma during a routine exam in dec. after some fits and starts, I am asymptomatic but because of the cytogenetics the decision was to start induction chemo with thalidomide and dexamethasone. I started about 10 days ago and adjustment has been difficult. They tell me that this goes on for 4 months and then a stem cell transplant. I am having difficulties with the highs from the steroids but the crashes when it comes off is much worse. Think that I am adjusting to the thalidomide. Is difficult as I am a dr. and is hard to go through all of this and be sharp seeing pts. I would really like to hear of anyone that has done this treatment, as it is hard to get a straight story out of most and while I anticipated some of these effects the intensity really took me by surprise, so the treatment for this asymptomatic disease is so far worse then the diagnosis. Love to hear from anyone.

Re ups and downs from dex., talk to your primary doctor re depression/anxiety meds (e.g. fluxetine) to help your body handle mood changes while going through treatment. Steroids are the pits but they fight the cancer so hang in there. I'm sorry you have to keep working through this...I was able to retreat to my bedroom and read when coming off dex and just avoid people. I was on thal. and dex for a year; I'm now awaiting stem cell transplant. Cancer level from 65% down to less than 5%. If anyone has suggestions for "getting through" after chemo, for patient and caretaker, please respond.