Shoulder Pain Hid Early Blood Cancer Warning

What began as persistent shoulder pain for Eric Dillon was eventually diagnosed as multiple myeloma, a cancer of the plasma cells. Initially treated as a strained rotator cuff and physical therapy, the pain returned with greater intensity in May 2024. An MRI prompted a referral to an oncologist, revealing the hidden blood cancer. Multiple myeloma can damage bones, causing pain that is often misdiagnosed as musculoskeletal issues.

This form of cancer disproportionately affects Black Americans, who represent a significant percentage of patients despite being a smaller portion of the U.S. population. They also tend to develop the disease at a younger age. Dillon, surprised by his diagnosis, found comfort in a treatment plan and opted to join a clinical trial, partly to address the underrepresentation of Black patients in such studies.

After eight cycles of treatment over nearly a year, radiation therapy finally eliminated the remaining cancer in his shoulder bone. Dillon is now in remission and focuses on family, while also raising awareness about multiple myeloma's subtle symptoms and treatment options. He emphasizes that effective treatments are available and encourages others to explore clinical trials.