This story is adapted from an article originally written in September 2025.
Chris, 84, is a retired rubber technologist who lives near Maldon in Essex. In 2018, Chris experienced sudden crippling back pain, forcing him to use a wheelchair for months.
Doctors ran tests to figure out what was causing the pain. They discovered that a tumour had “eaten” his vertebra (bones that make up the human spine). Chris was diagnosed with multiple myeloma - a type of blood cancer.
Treatment can often help to control the condition for several years, but most cases of multiple myeloma can't be cured.
Chris’ initial treatment involved radiotherapy to shrink the tumour on his vertebra, but unfortunately it could not be removed completely due to its location.
When Chris was told about a trial comparing a different sequence of drugs used to treat newly diagnosed multiple myeloma, he found hope. He said:
“I was given a lot of information, and although I didn’t know which regime they would put me on, it didn't take me long to say yes to taking part."
Since taking part in the trial in 2019, Chris has continued on the same treatment plan. Although living with multiple myeloma has led to a drastically decreased immune system, he credits the trial for helping to extend his life.
“I really was fortunate in the treatment that I was given, because I'm still here, and I owe my life to this trial.”
- Chris
“The team at Colchester Hospital have been very supportive, and the research nurses are wonderful. I have nothing but praise for the way I've been treated.”
“I'm pleased that I took part in the trial, and I feel very privileged.”
Talking about the benefits he has experienced with taking part in research, Chris continues:
“You’ve got nothing to lose. Of course you have to consider what your outcomes might be, but research is the only way that advances in medicine are made. I would encourage other people to take part in research.”
How you can get involved with research
Sign up to Be Part of Research to be contacted about a range of health and care research. Or check out our full list of studies to see if one is right for you.
And if taking part in a study doesn’t feel right at the moment there are other ways to get involved in research.
