Jelena Pravica was six months pregnant when her husband Ivan, who was 43 years old at the time, was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a malignant bone marrow disease. It all started in the spring of that year, after an earthquake and during the coronavirus pandemic. Ivan’s back began to hurt, and even during their summer vacation at the sea, the pain persisted. Initially, they thought it was due to changing the bed or his sedentary lifestyle. However, the pain worsened, and even painkillers were ineffective.
After finally seeking medical attention, Ivan was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. The treatment involved several stem cell transplants, and he is currently in partial remission and undergoing therapy. The availability of smart drugs has improved outcomes for multiple myeloma patients like Ivan.
Despite the challenges they faced, such as long wait times for medical tests and treatment, Jelena and Ivan are grateful for the therapies that have been approved and have helped Ivan. They acknowledge the importance of early diagnosis, access to the best treatments, and ongoing medical support for patients with multiple myeloma.
Multiple myeloma is a complex and incurable disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Advancements in therapies have led to longer remission periods and improved quality of life for patients. However, access to these treatments can vary by country, with some regions facing delays in approvals and availability of effective therapies.
In Croatia, patients continue to struggle for timely access to effective therapies for multiple myeloma despite significant progress in recent years. Patients like Jelena emphasize the importance of quick diagnosis
