Power of the patient

Myeloma Canada is unique in that the organization is patient driven and focused. Patients are represented on the Board of Directors. Myeloma Canada has a Patient Advisory Council (PAC) composed of patients from regions of Canada whose role is to advise the Board of Directors at Myeloma Canada on regional patient issues. This Patient Advisory Council is chaired by a patient who represents the PAC on the Board of Directors. Therefore, every decision that is made by Myeloma Canada and its Board of Directors has the patient in mind.

“This is very unique. Having the patient at the table brings a clearer focus and sense of urgency to research” says Aldo Del Col, co-founder of Myeloma Canada and Chair of the Science & Research Committee. “There are huge opportunities to make more inroads in fighting this disease, so why wouldn’t we want to involve patients, who are the focus of everything we do.”

Dr. Reece, Director of the Program for Multiple Myeloma and Related Diseases at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre says what distinguishes the Myeloma Canada Research Network is that the patient’s voice is right there in the same room with the researchers and doctors.