Bill Oleksak, a vibrant 76-year-old from Ford City, Pennsylvania, spent time sharing his incredible journey fighting multiple myeloma, a rare type of blood cancer. His story is not just about battling cancer; it is about resilience, positivity, and staying active through life's challenges. Bill's journey is a testament to how one can maintain an active lifestyle despite a serious diagnosis. If you are interested in learning more, then consider checking out more here.
Early Life and Background
Bill has always been an active individual throughout his life. He is a retired fifth-grade science teacher, and spent more than 35 years inspiring young minds in the field of science. To add, Bill’s love for sports has been a constant throughout his life. He has played baseball, basketball, football, and even ran triathlons. Since 1974, he has logged over 46,000 miles running, completing 12 marathons along the way. His dedication to fitness and health has been a cornerstone of his life. This is important to remember, and reminds us of Gemma (another person who shared their multiple myeloma journey in a previous blog.
The Cancer Diagnosis
Bill's health journey took a turn in 2010 when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Fortunately, after a successful radical prostatectomy, he was cancer-free. However, life threw another curveball when his wife, Kathy, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Together, they navigated these challenges, supporting each other through their health crises.
In March 2018, while visiting his daughter in North Carolina, Bill experienced unusual pain in his side. After some initial misdiagnosis and treatment attempts, he was ultimately referred to an oncologist. In November of 2018, he received the diagnosis of multiple myeloma. This was a pivotal moment for Bill; he felt a wave of emotions, but his son’s observation that he was depressed sparked a change in perspective.
Facing the Challenge
Determined to fight this new battle, Bill adopted a proactive mindset. He began to focus on the positive aspects of his life and his past experiences with cancer. Bill's story highlights the importance of mental health during such challenging times. He emphasizes that maintaining a positive attitude is crucial and that it can significantly impact one’s journey through cancer treatment.
Diagnosis and Treatment Journey
Bill’s journey with multiple myeloma involved various treatments. He underwent a series of tests, including a bone biopsy and PET scan, which confirmed the multiple myeloma diagnosis. His treatment plan included medications like dexamethasone, Velcade, and Revlimid. Each drug came with its own set of challenges, such as insomnia from dexamethasone and neuropathy from Velcade. In his podcast interview, he discusses how each drug went well, or tough.
In December 2018, Bill experienced excruciating pain that led to a hospital visit, where he learned he had a compression fracture. After a kyphoplasty procedure, he found almost instant relief, allowing him to regain his mobility and optimism.
Stem Cell Transplant
Bill's treatment plan included harvesting stem cells for a transplant. With the support of his family, he underwent the process with a positive attitude, viewing it as a rebirth. He recalls the day of his transplant as a long but rewarding experience. Even in the hospital, Bill made it a point to walk around and stay active, which helped him tremendously during recovery.
Life After Treatment
After completing his treatments, Bill found himself in remission. He emphasizes the importance of regular check-ups and blood work to monitor his health. Despite some setbacks, including a relapse, he remained active, swimming laps and engaging in low-impact exercises. His love for physical activity has not waned, and he continues to enjoy biking, running, and spending time with his family.
Advice for Others
Bill’s journey has taught him valuable lessons. He encourages others facing similar challenges to:
Stay proactive about your health and advocate for yourself.
Maintain a positive mindset and find joy in the things you love.
Engage in physical activities that you enjoy, even if they are modified.
Document your journey through journaling to recognize patterns and progress.
Lean on your support system, including family and friends, to navigate tough times.
Connect with other patients using Patient Connect allows you to meet people near you, and with similar healthcare journeys.
Conclusion
Bill Oleksak's story is a powerful reminder that life can continue to be vibrant and fulfilling, even in the face of serious health challenges. His commitment to staying active, his positive outlook, and the support of his family have played crucial roles in his journey. For those facing similar battles, Bill’s message is clear: never give up, and embrace the life you have.
Through his experiences, Bill has become a beacon of hope for others, proving that with determination and support, it is possible to navigate the complexities of multiple myeloma and come out stronger on the other side.
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