Houston man's shoulder pain uncovers multiple myeloma diagnosis

Eric Dillon initially attributed his shoulder aches to a strained rotator cuff and pursued physical therapy, but the pain persisted and intensified while he was doing yard work in May 2024. An MRI prompted a referral to an orthopedic oncologist, who directed him to a cancer specialist; subsequent testing diagnosed him with multiple myeloma. Within minutes, his wife secured an appointment at MD Anderson Cancer Center, and further examinations confirmed the diagnosis and outlined a treatment plan.

Dillon began therapy and joined a clinical trial, completing eight cycles over nearly a year with manageable side effects. Additional radiation eliminated residual cancer in his shoulder bone, relieving his pain. He now remains in remission, attends regular follow-up visits, and advocates for awareness of myeloma’s atypical symptoms and broader trial participation.