11 September 2024

King's Health Partners Haematology (KHP Haematology) was approached by Dr Arief Gunawan, Consultant Haematologist at King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (NHS FT), to support the reinvigoration of the South East London Myeloma Patient and Carer Support Group.

The support group meeting took place quarterly prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, and were held face-to-face at the Guy's Cancer Centre, supported by the clinical nurse specialists. Due to the pandemic, the group meetings were paused, and KHP Haematology worked with clinical colleagues across the partnership to relaunch it.

The first group meeting took place in March at the Guy's Cancer Centre, and more than 30 patients and carers attended to hear updates regarding current myeloma research from Dr Reuben Benjamin, Consultant Haematologist, King's College Hospital NHS FT. On Monday 24 June, 30 patients and carers came together again, for a meeting focused on guided mindfulness and self-compassion exercises led by Surabhi Chaturvedi, Senior Psychotherapist and Service Lead of the Haemato-Oncology Psychosocial Support Team, King’s College Hospital NHS FT.

As with the first meeting, there were time built in for networking and conversation amongst the group, with very positive feedback from attendees on how helpful they found the group to meet others affected by Myeloma.

Multiple myeloma, also known as myeloma, is a type of bone marrow cancer. Bone marrow is the spongy tissue at the centre of some bones that produces the body's blood cells.

It's called multiple myeloma as the cancer often affects several areas of the body, such as the spine, skull, pelvis and ribs.

Treatment can often help to control the condition for several years, but most cases of multiple myeloma can't be cured. Research is ongoing to try to find new treatments.

Charles Yhudah, Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) Coordinator/CNS Admin Support, is helping the Patient Support Group on a voluntary basis. He told us why he got involved:

"I am a people person, I enjoy interacting with patients and members of staff, and providing support and creating a friendly environment. I am passionate about helping and caring for others and this role was a great opportunity to do so.

"Working in a partnership allows constructive interaction towards a common or shared goal. Working with others and sharing ideas contributes to the improvement of patient care and increases staff satisfaction."

The next support group meeting is in September, and Myeloma UK have been invited to talk about the support they offer for people affected by Myeloma.

Find out more about the work of KHP Haematology.