Shoulder pain leads to Texas dad’s cancer diagnosis: “I was like, ‘Wait, what?'”
Eric Dillon initially dismissed the pain in his shoulder as a strained rotator cuff. A visit to an orthopedic doctor seemed to confirm this, and with physical therapy and stretching, the pain subsided. However, over the next two years, the discomfort would occasionally resurface, only to be alleviated by changes in his sleep position or activity level.
It wasn’t until Dillon experienced a sudden burst of excruciating pain while doing yard work at his Houston home in May 2024 that he sought further medical attention. An MRI revealed something alarming, leading to a referral to an oncologist. Shocked by the news that he had multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer, Dillon wasted no time in seeking treatment at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas.
Multiple myeloma, as explained by Dr. Hearn Cho, an oncologist, affects plasma cells and can lead to complications such as anemia, kidney damage, and bone issues. Dillon’s initial shoulder pain was a result of bone damage caused by the cancer. The diagnosis came as a surprise to Dillon, despite having a family member and friend who had dealt with the disease. He soon discovered that Black Americans are disproportionately affected by multiple myeloma.
Treatment and Recovery
Dillon wasted no time in starting treatment and even opted to participate in a clinical trial to contribute to research and increase representation of Black patients. After undergoing eight cycles of treatment over nearly a year, Dillon experienced minor side effects that were managed by his care team. Additional rounds of radiation successfully eliminated the remaining cancer in his shoulder bone, finally relieving him of the persistent pain.
Today, Dillon is in remission and continues to have regular check-ups with his oncologist. While a stem cell replacement may be on the horizon, he is currently focused on enjoying time with his family and new grandchild. Dillon remains an advocate for raising awareness about multiple myeloma, its symptoms, and the importance of clinical trials in advancing research and treatment options.
Looking Ahead
Dillon’s journey with multiple myeloma has taught him that there is hope and a bright future ahead. By working with organizations like the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation and encouraging others to explore research opportunities, he aims to spread awareness and support those affected by the disease. Dillon emphasizes that there are treatment options available and that the future holds promise for those battling multiple myeloma.
