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Episodes
Thursday Jul 17, 2025
Thursday Jul 17, 2025
Welcome to The Myeloma Minutes. We've now moved to a fortnightly release schedule, so you can now hear us every-other Thursday.
This episode walks you through every stage of an autologous stem cell transplant for myeloma - from preparation and chemotherapy to recovery and going home.
📌Key Takeaways:
You’ll get high-dose chemotherapy (melphalan) followed by your own stem cells - not someone else’s.
Expect a tough week of diarrhoea, fatigue and infection risk - but recovery does come.
From ice lollies to sweetcorn smells, it’s a challenging but proven path to deeper remission.
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical guidance regarding your health concerns
ABOUT YOUR HOSTS
Dr. Jam Kothari
Dr Jam Kothari (@myeloma_medic) is an Oxford based blood cancer doctor, specialising in the treatment of multiple myeloma and associated conditions. He has been a consultant for a decade, and leads the provision of myeloma care for Oxford and neighbouring areas. He lectures regionally and nationally and leads clinical trials investigating the use of new treatments for myeloma. He is a strong believer in patient based, holistic care, delivered with warmth, clarity and integrity.
Dr. Sally Moore
Dr Sally Moore is a Bristol based consultant who specialises in treating patients living with multiple myeloma and other plasma cell disorders. She oversees the delivery of clinical research studies for myeloma patients and has academic interests in how to maximise quality of life for patients and improve outcomes in older, less fit patients. She frequently contributes to myeloma related educational events for fellow doctors and healthcare professionals at a local, regional and national level and is an active member of the UK Myeloma Research Alliance and an executive member of the UK Myeloma Society.
Thursday Jul 03, 2025
Thursday Jul 03, 2025
Welcome to The Myeloma Minutes. We've now moved to a fortnightly release schedule, so you can now hear us every-other Thursday.
During this episode, Jam & Sally give an in-depth, patient-friendly guide to stem cell mobilisation - the essential step before undergoing an autologous stem cell transplant for multiple myeloma.
📌Key Takeaways:
Stem cells are collected from your blood - not your bone marrow - thanks to clever modern techniques.
Daily injections (GCSF) help ‘mobilise’ these vital parent cells for collection and storage.
Most people collect enough cells for transplant in just one or two days - with minimal discomfort.
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical guidance regarding your health concerns
ABOUT YOUR HOSTS
Dr. Jam Kothari
Dr Jam Kothari (@myeloma_medic) is an Oxford based blood cancer doctor, specialising in the treatment of multiple myeloma and associated conditions. He has been a consultant for a decade, and leads the provision of myeloma care for Oxford and neighbouring areas. He lectures regionally and nationally and leads clinical trials investigating the use of new treatments for myeloma. He is a strong believer in patient based, holistic care, delivered with warmth, clarity and integrity.
Dr. Sally Moore
Dr Sally Moore is a Bristol based consultant who specialises in treating patients living with multiple myeloma and other plasma cell disorders. She oversees the delivery of clinical research studies for myeloma patients and has academic interests in how to maximise quality of life for patients and improve outcomes in older, less fit patients. She frequently contributes to myeloma related educational events for fellow doctors and healthcare professionals at a local, regional and national level and is an active member of the UK Myeloma Research Alliance and an executive member of the UK Myeloma Society.
Friday Jun 20, 2025
Friday Jun 20, 2025
Welcome to The Myeloma Minutes.
During this episode, Jam & Sally talk about a ground-breaking new combination therapy for multiple myeloma available on the NHS from this week. They highlight how it works, who it’s for, and what patients need to know.
📌Key Takeaways:
A new 'Trojan horse' drug is now approved on the NHS for first relapse myeloma.
Treatment is effective, flexible — and may only be needed every few months.
Watch out for eye side effects — they're common, but usually temporary and manageable.
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical guidance regarding your health concerns
ABOUT YOUR HOSTS
Dr. Jam Kothari
Dr Jam Kothari (@myeloma_medic) is an Oxford based blood cancer doctor, specialising in the treatment of multiple myeloma and associated conditions. He has been a consultant for a decade, and leads the provision of myeloma care for Oxford and neighbouring areas. He lectures regionally and nationally and leads clinical trials investigating the use of new treatments for myeloma. He is a strong believer in patient based, holistic care, delivered with warmth, clarity and integrity.
Dr. Sally Moore
Dr Sally Moore is a Bristol based consultant who specialises in treating patients living with multiple myeloma and other plasma cell disorders. She oversees the delivery of clinical research studies for myeloma patients and has academic interests in how to maximise quality of life for patients and improve outcomes in older, less fit patients. She frequently contributes to myeloma related educational events for fellow doctors and healthcare professionals at a local, regional and national level and is an active member of the UK Myeloma Research Alliance and an executive member of the UK Myeloma Society.
Wednesday Jun 11, 2025
Wednesday Jun 11, 2025
Welcome to The Myeloma Minutes.
This episode explores the standard treatment for older or transplant-ineligible patients with myeloma, focusing on the DRD regimen, its side effects, and supportive care options.
📌Key points:
The DRD combo (Daratumumab, Lenalidomide, Dexamethasone) can keep myeloma controlled for years—even in older patients.
Steroids are powerful but often reduced or stopped early to improve quality of life.
You may start with a dozen pills—but many are temporary and can be stopped as treatment progresses.
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical guidance regarding your health concerns
ABOUT YOUR HOSTS
Dr. Jam Kothari
Dr Jam Kothari (@myeloma_medic) is an Oxford based blood cancer doctor, specialising in the treatment of multiple myeloma and associated conditions. He has been a consultant for a decade, and leads the provision of myeloma care for Oxford and neighbouring areas. He lectures regionally and nationally and leads clinical trials investigating the use of new treatments for myeloma. He is a strong believer in patient based, holistic care, delivered with warmth, clarity and integrity.
Dr. Sally Moore
Dr Sally Moore is a Bristol based consultant who specialises in treating patients living with multiple myeloma and other plasma cell disorders. She oversees the delivery of clinical research studies for myeloma patients and has academic interests in how to maximise quality of life for patients and improve outcomes in older, less fit patients. She frequently contributes to myeloma related educational events for fellow doctors and healthcare professionals at a local, regional and national level and is an active member of the UK Myeloma Research Alliance and an executive member of the UK Myeloma Society.
Thursday Jun 05, 2025
Thursday Jun 05, 2025
Welcome to The Myeloma Minutes.
This episode guides you as a patient or carer through induction therapy for myeloma, focusing on the DVTD regimen, its side effects, supportive treatments, and how to manage them.
💡You'll learn:
How four powerful drugs work together to fight myeloma — and why you don’t need to suffer through side effects.
That neuropathy is reasonably common, but catching it early can prevent long-term damage.
There’s a lot of medication, but most of it won’t last forever — and your team is there to help you through it.
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical guidance regarding your health concerns
ABOUT YOUR HOSTS
Dr. Jam Kothari
Dr Jam Kothari (@myeloma_medic) is an Oxford based blood cancer doctor, specialising in the treatment of multiple myeloma and associated conditions. He has been a consultant for a decade, and leads the provision of myeloma care for Oxford and neighbouring areas. He lectures regionally and nationally and leads clinical trials investigating the use of new treatments for myeloma. He is a strong believer in patient based, holistic care, delivered with warmth, clarity and integrity.
Dr. Sally Moore
Dr Sally Moore is a Bristol based consultant who specialises in treating patients living with multiple myeloma and other plasma cell disorders. She oversees the delivery of clinical research studies for myeloma patients and has academic interests in how to maximise quality of life for patients and improve outcomes in older, less fit patients. She frequently contributes to myeloma related educational events for fellow doctors and healthcare professionals at a local, regional and national level and is an active member of the UK Myeloma Research Alliance and an executive member of the UK Myeloma Society.
Thursday May 29, 2025
Thursday May 29, 2025
Welcome to The Myeloma Minutes.
During this episode, Drs Jam and Sally provide a clear and compassionate guide to first-line treatment for multiple myeloma.
💡You'll learn:
About 'induction', 'consolidation' and 'maintenance'—and why they matter.
Why pathways can often be dictated by age/health.
...And that the aim isn’t just survival—it’s living well with myeloma.
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical guidance regarding your health concerns
ABOUT YOUR HOSTS
Dr. Jam Kothari
Dr Jam Kothari (@myeloma_medic) is an Oxford based blood cancer doctor, specialising in the treatment of multiple myeloma and associated conditions. He has been a consultant for a decade, and leads the provision of myeloma care for Oxford and neighbouring areas. He lectures regionally and nationally and leads clinical trials investigating the use of new treatments for myeloma. He is a strong believer in patient based, holistic care, delivered with warmth, clarity and integrity.
Dr. Sally Moore
Dr Sally Moore is a Bristol based consultant who specialises in treating patients living with multiple myeloma and other plasma cell disorders. She oversees the delivery of clinical research studies for myeloma patients and has academic interests in how to maximise quality of life for patients and improve outcomes in older, less fit patients. She frequently contributes to myeloma related educational events for fellow doctors and healthcare professionals at a local, regional and national level and is an active member of the UK Myeloma Research Alliance and an executive member of the UK Myeloma Society.
Thursday May 22, 2025
Thursday May 22, 2025
Welcome to The Myeloma Minutes.
This episode explores how bone disease affects people with multiple myeloma and how bisphosphonates like zolendronic acid can help manage pain, prevent fractures, and support treatment.
📌 Three Big Takeaways
Bone disease isn’t inevitable in myeloma—but needs fast action when it strikes!
Zolendronic acid can protect your bones and support myeloma treatment—learn how and when it’s used.
Confused about calcium, kidneys, and dental checks? We break down the practical steps for safer treatment.
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical guidance regarding your health concerns
ABOUT YOUR HOSTS
Dr. Jam Kothari
Dr Jam Kothari (@myeloma_medic) is an Oxford based blood cancer doctor, specialising in the treatment of multiple myeloma and associated conditions. He has been a consultant for a decade, and leads the provision of myeloma care for Oxford and neighbouring areas. He lectures regionally and nationally and leads clinical trials investigating the use of new treatments for myeloma. He is a strong believer in patient based, holistic care, delivered with warmth, clarity and integrity.
Dr. Sally Moore
Dr Sally Moore is a Bristol based consultant who specialises in treating patients living with multiple myeloma and other plasma cell disorders. She oversees the delivery of clinical research studies for myeloma patients and has academic interests in how to maximise quality of life for patients and improve outcomes in older, less fit patients. She frequently contributes to myeloma related educational events for fellow doctors and healthcare professionals at a local, regional and national level and is an active member of the UK Myeloma Research Alliance and an executive member of the UK Myeloma Society.
Thursday May 15, 2025
Thursday May 15, 2025
Welcome to The Myeloma Minutes.
Dr Shaheel Bhuva, a radiologist (and long term colleague of Jam) joins Drs Jam and Sally to demystify scans in myeloma—explaining what they show, when they're used, and he'll dispel some myths around harmful amounts of radiation!
3 Key Teakaways:
Not all bone damage shows up on X-rays—some scans reveal disease before symptoms begin.
MRI and PET-CT scans can detect myeloma earlier and help track how well treatment is working.
If you’ve ever wondered why you need another scan, this episode will make it all clear.
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical guidance regarding your health concerns
ABOUT YOUR HOSTS
Dr. Jam Kothari
Dr Jam Kothari (@myeloma_medic) is an Oxford based blood cancer doctor, specialising in the treatment of multiple myeloma and associated conditions. He has been a consultant for a decade, and leads the provision of myeloma care for Oxford and neighbouring areas. He lectures regionally and nationally and leads clinical trials investigating the use of new treatments for myeloma. He is a strong believer in patient based, holistic care, delivered with warmth, clarity and integrity.
Dr. Sally Moore
Dr Sally Moore is a Bristol based consultant who specialises in treating patients living with multiple myeloma and other plasma cell disorders. She oversees the delivery of clinical research studies for myeloma patients and has academic interests in how to maximise quality of life for patients and improve outcomes in older, less fit patients. She frequently contributes to myeloma related educational events for fellow doctors and healthcare professionals at a local, regional and national level and is an active member of the UK Myeloma Research Alliance and an executive member of the UK Myeloma Society.
Thursday May 08, 2025
Thursday May 08, 2025
Welcome to The Myeloma Minutes.
During this episode Jam and Sally deep dive into Smouldering Myeloma—explaining what it is, how it’s monitored, the emotional toll of uncertainty, and what patients and carers can expect from evolving research and care approaches. Conversation points include:
Smouldering myeloma is a precancerous condition and it needs careful monitoring to catch changes early.
Understanding your risk level helps guide decisions about early treatment or active observation.
Living with the 'watch and wait' phase can be emotionally tough—support and information are essential.
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical guidance regarding your health concerns
ABOUT YOUR HOSTS
Dr. Jam Kothari
Dr Jam Kothari (@myeloma_medic) is an Oxford based blood cancer doctor, specialising in the treatment of multiple myeloma and associated conditions. He has been a consultant for a decade, and leads the provision of myeloma care for Oxford and neighbouring areas. He lectures regionally and nationally and leads clinical trials investigating the use of new treatments for myeloma. He is a strong believer in patient based, holistic care, delivered with warmth, clarity and integrity.
Dr. Sally Moore
Dr Sally Moore is a Bristol based consultant who specialises in treating patients living with multiple myeloma and other plasma cell disorders. She oversees the delivery of clinical research studies for myeloma patients and has academic interests in how to maximise quality of life for patients and improve outcomes in older, less fit patients. She frequently contributes to myeloma related educational events for fellow doctors and healthcare professionals at a local, regional and national level and is an active member of the UK Myeloma Research Alliance and an executive member of the UK Myeloma Society.
Thursday May 01, 2025
Thursday May 01, 2025
Welcome to The Myeloma Minutes.
During this chat with Jam and Sally you'll hear a candid patient perspective on coping with a myeloma diagnosis and the emotional, physical, and practical realities of steroid treatment.
Hit ▶️ and you will learn:
That “Dexy's Midnight Runners” isn't just a band—it's a nickname for the steroids that turned myeloma treatment into a rollercoaster.
About Katy's unexpected side effects: From insomnia to "gerbil-face" —and how her family adapted.
Real talk on what to say (and not say) to someone with cancer—and how homemade soup can make all the difference!
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical guidance regarding your health concerns
ABOUT YOUR HOSTS
Dr. Jam Kothari
Dr Jam Kothari (@myeloma_medic) is an Oxford based blood cancer doctor, specialising in the treatment of multiple myeloma and associated conditions. He has been a consultant for a decade, and leads the provision of myeloma care for Oxford and neighbouring areas. He lectures regionally and nationally and leads clinical trials investigating the use of new treatments for myeloma. He is a strong believer in patient based, holistic care, delivered with warmth, clarity and integrity.
Dr. Sally Moore
Dr Sally Moore is a Bristol based consultant who specialises in treating patients living with multiple myeloma and other plasma cell disorders. She oversees the delivery of clinical research studies for myeloma patients and has academic interests in how to maximise quality of life for patients and improve outcomes in older, less fit patients. She frequently contributes to myeloma related educational events for fellow doctors and healthcare professionals at a local, regional and national level and is an active member of the UK Myeloma Research Alliance and an executive member of the UK Myeloma Society.