The Investigating Myeloma campaign highlights advances in treatment and personal stories to educate the public
Category: Health
In a heartfelt initiative, actress Mariska Hargitay has partnered with Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) to launch the "Investigating Myeloma" awareness campaign, aimed at shedding light on multiple myeloma, a complex and incurable blood cancer. This campaign coincides with the 20th anniversary of her father, Mickey Hargitay's, death from the disease, making it deeply personal for the actress.
Multiple myeloma, which affects plasma cells in the bone marrow, is the second most common blood cancer in the United States, with approximately 36,000 new cases diagnosed each year. It is characterized by a relentless pattern of relapse and progressively shorter remissions, highlighting the urgent need for continued research and awareness.
Launched on June 8, 2026, the "Investigating Myeloma" campaign aims to educate the public about the disease and the importance of scientific research in improving treatment options. The campaign features Hargitay's personal story, allowing her to honor her father's legacy and share her experiences as a daughter of someone who battled this devastating illness. Hargitay describes her father as a hero and a mentor, recalling the emotional toll of his diagnosis and the challenges faced by families dealing with myeloma.
At the heart of the campaign is BMS's focus on CELMoD research, which stands for cereblon E3 ligase modulation. This innovative approach aims to engage key proteins involved in multiple myeloma, utilizing the body's own protein removal system to stimulate the immune response and improve the killing of cancer cells. Dr. Neil Bence, Senior Vice President at BMS, emphasized the significance of this research, stating, "Our innovative CELMoD research is a core part of our scientific investigation into myeloma. This approach engages cereblon within the cell's natural protein removal system to selectively break down key proteins linked to this disease."
In her emotional reflections, Hargitay noted, "My father was and remains my hero. Many years have passed since we lost him to multiple myeloma, but I still have questions about the disease that brought down this pillar in my life." She expressed hope that the campaign would honor her father's memory and educate others about the advances in treatment that have emerged since his passing. Hargitay's personal connection to the cause resonates with many, including Monica Shaw, Senior Vice President of Oncology Commercialization at BMS, who also lost her father to multiple myeloma. Shaw stated, "I just remembered thinking at the time that I couldn’t understand how your average person was able to navigate [it], considering my scientific background. How would an ordinary person just showing up in a clinic be able to navigate?"
The "Investigating Myeloma" campaign offers educational resources for patients and caregivers, aiming to simplify the complex information surrounding multiple myeloma. It encourages proactive discussions between patients and healthcare providers about treatment options and disease management. BMS has developed this initiative to raise awareness and to address the specific information needs of the myeloma community.
As part of its commitment to advancing treatment options for multiple myeloma, BMS is actively conducting research on new therapies. Recently, the company reported positive phase 3 trial results for Mezigdomide, a drug derived from its CELMoD research. This progress highlights BMS's dedication to finding innovative solutions for patients facing this challenging disease. Shaw emphasized that the hunt for a cure is always at the forefront of their mission, stating, "The CELMoD research is only the first step of some of the continued research that we’re doing in the years to come."
The campaign also features a dedicated website, social media content, and interviews with Hargitay, aiming to engage the public and provide multiple perspectives on her story and the broader implications of myeloma research. Shaw hopes that the campaign will resonate with those who have experienced similar challenges, saying, "For anybody that’s had a family member or a friend go through something similar, it’s important to feel that you’re not alone." The personal stories shared through this initiative serve to connect individuals affected by myeloma and inspire hope for future advancements in treatment.
In an era where medical science is rapidly advancing, campaigns like "Investigating Myeloma" play a key role in raising awareness and fostering community support. By sharing personal experiences and highlighting innovative research, Hargitay and BMS aim to illuminate the path forward for patients and families impacted by multiple myeloma. For more information on the campaign and resources available, visit InvestigatingMyeloma.com.