In August 2008, Tim Rhymer’s mom, Jeanine, was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. Though chemotherapy and a difficult stem cell transplant allowed her some time in remission, Jeanine’s cancer has returned, and she will undergo another, more intense, stem cell transplant this summer. “My mom has always been a strong woman, but right now I feel like it's my turn to be strong for her and my dad,” Tim says. “Recently she moved back to the Chicago area, and I thought this would really encourage her and lift her spirits.” The transplant may be grueling, but this time Jeanine has this event to cheer her up, as well as some exciting news: “We just found out my wife and I are going to be having a baby, Jeanine’s first grandchild,” Tim says. Though multiple myeloma is a dreadful disease, there are so many joys that it can never take away.
