The Journey of Eric Dillon Through Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
Eric Dillon initially attributed the pain in his shoulder to a strained rotator cuff. He consulted an orthopedic doctor who confirmed his suspicion. With physical therapy and stretching, the pain subsided for a while. However, over two years, he experienced occasional discomfort, often easing it by adjusting his sleep position or activity. It became a part of his daily routine until he encountered a wave of “tremendous pain” while doing yard work at his Houston home in May 2024. This prompted him to return to the orthopedist, where an MRI revealed concerning news. Dillon found himself referred to an oncologist, leaving him confused about what to expect.
“I walked in, and she was like, ‘You know why you’re here?’ I replied, ‘I have a referral from another doctor to see you,’” Dillon recounted. “She explained, ‘I’m an orthopedic oncologist … I deal with cancer.’ I thought, ‘Wait, what?’”
Subsequent tests revealed that Dillon had multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. Shortly after, his wife scheduled an appointment at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Following their visit a few days later, new tests reaffirmed the diagnosis and initiated a treatment plan. Dillon was astonished to find out that his shoulder pain was an early warning sign.
Understanding Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma affects plasma cells, according to Dr. Hearn Cho, an oncologist and chief medical officer of the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, who has not treated Dillon. The malignant cells can disrupt normal blood production, leading to issues like anemia and even kidney damage. Additionally, the disease weakens bones, which was the source of Dillon’s shoulder pain. Cho explained that multiple myeloma can often be misidentified as a typical injury.
“The spinal bones frequently get involved in myeloma, leading to back pain, which is one of the top complaints in medicine,” Cho noted. “So, when people visit their doctors saying their back hurts, the immediate thought usually isn’t multiple myeloma; it’s often seen as musculoskeletal pain or a strain. Doctors typically suggest anti-inflammatories and physical therapy since common issues are the most likely.” Diagnosing it can be challenging, sometimes taking a considerable amount of time.
Dillon, while shocked by his diagnosis, had some familiarity with the disease; his cousin had undergone treatment for it years ago, and an old college friend had also been diagnosed recently. He soon discovered the disproportionate impact of the condition on Black Americans.
“Even though Black individuals make up about 4% of the U.S. population, they account for roughly 20% of multiple myeloma patients,” Cho explained. Furthermore, Black patients often face the disease at younger ages.
Starting Treatment for Multiple Myeloma
Dillon was keen to start treatment, feeling reassured by having a plan. Soon after, his doctors presented him with an opportunity to join a clinical trial, which he accepted without hesitation. “Participating in a clinical trial felt like a positive step. It gave me a sense of control and deeper insight into what was unfolding,” Dillon stated. He also was motivated to enhance equitable representation in clinical trials, as Black patients have been traditionally underrepresented despite the higher prevalence of the disease among them.
Over nearly a year, Dillon went through eight cycles of treatment. He adjusted his work schedule to balance his trial participation with his job as an engineering consultant. He kept a journal throughout the process; at one point, minor side effects led his medical team to modify his trial medication dosage. Dillon felt proud of his contributions to refining the trial.
“From that point on, everything seemed to go smoothly. I didn’t face major side effects or complications,” he remarked.
After the clinical trial, some cancer remained in Dillon’s shoulder bone, but this was eliminated after several rounds of radiation therapy. With that, his shoulder pain finally disappeared. “It was incredible to be pain-free and moving forward,” Dillon shared. “Now, everything feels beautiful.”
A Bright Future
As of now, Dillon is in remission, routinely checking in with his oncologist to ensure the cancer has not returned. He’s on a daily medication to maintain his health. Although he may consider a stem cell replacement in the future, he’s not looking into it right now due to the months of isolation it entails. Instead, his focus is on celebrating his new grandchild and cherishing time with family. “I’m just enjoying more moments with them,” Dillon said.
Additionally, Dillon wants to raise awareness about the unusual symptoms of multiple myeloma and the tools available for quicker diagnoses. He has been collaborating with the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, hoping to involve his friend diagnosed around the same time as him. He emphasizes the importance of understanding clinical trials and research options people might have available to them. “This isn’t a type of cancer that has no treatments,” Dillon asserted. “The future is promising. The opportunities are plentiful.”
