In this episode of The Health Deli, we step behind the counter to unpack a complex and often misunderstood blood cancer: multiple myeloma.

We break down what multiple myeloma actually is — a cancer of plasma cells that leads to the overproduction of abnormal antibodies (monoclonal immunoglobulins) — and explain how it affects the body, including bone damage, kidney injury, anemia, and elevated calcium levels. We also explore precursor conditions like MGUS and smoldering multiple myeloma, risk factors, common symptoms, and how diagnosis is made using the well-known “CRAB” criteria

Most importantly, we’re joined by friend, colleague, and cancer survivor Dr. Marc Nienhuis, who shares his powerful personal story. Diagnosed more than 20 years ago — at a time when survival rates were far lower — Marc discusses what it was like to hear the diagnosis, how treatment has evolved, the role of bone marrow transplantation, and what it means to live long-term with a cancer that currently has no cure but can be managed.