The Central New Jersey Multiple Myeloma Support Group

10/18/2026

This last Wednesday, October 14, we had another exceptional in-person support group meeting at Steeplechase Cancer Center. We covered a variety of topics and all attendees shared their stories with one another that always provides for such optimism and hope. We had a mix of first time attendees, recently diagnosed as well as long term patients, diagnosed over 10 years ago. The cross section of experiences from everyone is so invaluable, inspiring and educational that we always leave with a renewed sense of energy and hope.

If anyone is interested in our support group, please message me. We meet virtually the first Wednesday of each month from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. We have guest speakers that provide a variety of educational information to our members as well as time to hear from our members as well and discuss any topic that is on their mind.

Thank you,
Frank Morelli

10/10/2026

Our support was honored to have Tom Whitehead, Emily Whitehead’s father speak to our group this past Wednesday.

Here is a brief overview.

A powerful story that goes far beyond hope and resilience

Emily Whitehead was the first pediatric patient in the world to receive CAR-T cell therapy. In 2012, at just six years old and facing relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia with no remaining options, she became the pioneer whose treatment opened a new era in cancer care. Her journey and the unwavering advocacy of her parents continues to inspire patients and families across every type of blood cancer.

Today we want to offer a heartfelt thank you to Tom Whitehead for sharing his family’s inspirational story with the Central New Jersey Multiple Myeloma Support Group.

Even though our diagnoses differ, Emily’s story has touched so many of us. The courage, resilience, and lasting hope that shine through the Whitehead family’s experience lift our spirits and remind us what is possible. Your willingness to share those moments with our group has meant more than words can fully express—our members carry that powerful story with them every day.

Thank you, Tom, for the gift of your time, your honesty, and your family’s strength. It truly makes a difference.

09/21/2026

This year marked a true milestone of passion, dedication, and remembrance.
Thirteen years ago, I attended the very first Miracles for Myeloma 5K Walk/Run at Oak Ridge Park in Clark, NJ. That inaugural event was inspiring and it turned out to be so much more than a single day. It was the beginning of an annual celebration of hope that has grown to support patients, care partners, families, and friends.

Fueled by the International Myeloma Foundation, generous donors from across the state and beyond, and the tireless work of so many volunteers, this year we reached a true miracle milestone: $1,000,000 raised for myeloma research! And, of course, the architects of the event, Ron & Sheree Pask. Thank you!

These donations continue to power the research that improves patient outcomes and saves lives. Research is hope in action. It’s the reason we get to celebrate more birthdays, more family vacations, more anniversaries, more summer gatherings, and more ordinary, precious moments that mean everything.

What began in a small New Jersey town has become a powerful event of hope and courage.

I am proud to be part of this one-of-a-kind celebration of life, and I will continue to be.

Thank you to everyone who has walked, run, volunteered, donated, and believed with us over these 14 years.
Together, we are making miracles.

09/17/2026

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or dealing with multiple myeloma for a while, the IMF’s Patient Family Seminar, in Short Hills, NJ is an important educational conference you should attend. You will have an opportunity to hear some of the leading voices discuss the advances in myeloma therapies, network with other patients and care partners and see firsthand, hope in action.

I hope to see as many of you as possible in Short Hills on October 2nd & 3rd.

Go to myeloma.org to register.

09/13/2026

This past Wednesday, September 9, we had such an informative and well presented session on clonal sequencing and minimal residual disease, presented by Dr Christina Spencer, from Adaptive Biotechnologies. The in depth but easy to follow and understand presentation clarified the significance of this specific testing for myeloma patients. Adaptive’s next generation sequencing (NGS) is unique in assessing the DNA and profile of a patient that ultimately allows for the patient and their medical team to chart a proper and very specific treatment course.

We had a great turnout of 38 members attending that were all impressed with the information and prepared for an insightful discussion with their specialists on this topic, when necessary.

We sincerely appreciate Dr. Spencer and the Adaptive Biotechnologies team supporting us and the entire myeloma community. Bringing innovation and advances that make a meaningful impact in all of our lives!

Next Virtual Meeting - October 7, 2026. 6:30 pm.
Guest Speaker - Tom Whitehead. Co-founder of the Emily Whitehead Foundation.

Tom Whitehead’s daughter, Emily was the first child in the world whose cancer was cured with CAR-T cell therapy.

The significance of this meeting is that Emily and her families courage, paved the way for the advances in CAR-T treatment today that impact not only multiple myeloma, but virtually dozens of other cancers.

09/10/2026

09/04/2026

I will be speaking at the IMF's 2026 Patient & Family Seminar in Short Hills, NJ! Join me and other community members on 10/2 – 10/3 to learn about the latest in myeloma and connect with our community. Register now at https://www.myeloma.org/events/short-hills-nj-patient-family-seminar-2026

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The International Myeloma Foundation (IMF) is excited to announce that the 2026 Short Hills Patient and Family Seminar will take place on October 2-3, 2026, in Short Hills, New Jersey. The seminar is FREE, but in-person seating is LIMITED.

08/06/2026

We had an exceptional meeting last night with 27 attendees discussing a variety of different topics during our open meeting. There was no guest speaker, or agenda, just an opportunity to check in with everyone and get updates,answer questions during this productive session. Open meetings are very useful and allows for just about any topic relative to a patient, family member or care partners to discuss in a comfortable, inclusive and supportive environment.

Thank you to everyone that continues to support us in this very important cause!

06/04/2026

Last night’s support group session with Anne Marie Robbins, estate planning attorney was a resounding success! Highly informative, interactive, and deeply educational, the presentation delivered practical insights on wills, trusts, incapacity planning, and protecting loved ones—sparking thoughtful questions and valuable discussions. A powerful reminder that proactive estate planning brings clarity and peace of mind for every stage of life.

This meeting served to provide valuable information to everyone, regardless of your wealth or health status. Each component of last nights presentation served as a reminder that, every so often, we should conduct a self analysis and asked the question; am I prepared that best way(s) possible should unexpected crisis’ occur?

We had 27 attendees during our virtual meeting and I can’t thank you all enough for your participation which made for a great meeting!

05/16/2026

What a meaningful afternoon we had on May 13th! This meeting was a wonderful continuation of the powerful discussion we began in April. Once again, the topic of Finding Hope and Silver Linings brought out heartfelt, inspiring, and deeply moving stories from everyone who attended.

We talked openly about gratitude and the appreciation of life — even while navigating the realities of a myeloma diagnosis. Members shared personal experiences with such sincerity and emotion that we truly got to know one another on a much deeper level.

Debbie and I feel incredibly fortunate to lead such a caring, open, and dedicated group. The willingness you all show to support one another — through sharing your stories, offering encouragement, and lifting each other up — is truly special. Thank you for trusting the group with your experiences and for making these meetings so meaningful.

We left feeling more hopeful, more grateful, and more connected. These conversations remind us that even on the hardest days, silver linings are there — and together, we find them more easily.

If you missed this meeting but would like to join us next time, please reach out! New members and caregivers are always welcome.

With gratitude,
Frank & Debbie
Central New Jersey Myeloma Support Group