The Waldenstrom's Weekly

December 15, 2023

Volume 3, Issue 47

I felt so alone. Now I don't feel alone. -N.S.

- Special Announcements -

IWMF Announces New Board Members for 2024!

The International Waldenstrom's Macroglobulinemia Foundation (IWMF) is excited to announce the addition of two new members to the Board of Trustees – Carl Harrington and Saurabh Seroo.

Carl Harrington has been appointed as the Interim Vice-Chair of Fundraising and Chair of the Fundraising Committee. Carl is the Chair Emeritus for the IWMF and served as the volunteer president and CEO for eight years, from 2013 to 2020. During this tenure, he was key to creating the IWMF Strategic Plan--including the vision, mission, values, and global imperatives, as well as the IWMF-LLS Strategic Research Roadmap initiative. His leadership brought significant fundraising and revenue increases. Currently, as Chair of the IWMF Global Patient Initiative, he actively promotes the IWMF vision and mission worldwide. Carl was diagnosed with WM in 2006 and has been in watch-and-wait ever since.

Saurabh Seroo, co-leader of Waldenstrom India, began his career at Deloitte Consulting, where he spent almost a decade building technology solutions for international clients. He subsequently served as COO of an Indian e-commerce startup and is presently a public market securities and angel investor. 

Before starting WM India in 2017, Saurabh spent five years as Campaign Leader for Teach for India, where he worked to raise funds and provide resources for lower income schools in partnership with Deloitte. Saurabh lives in Bangalore, India. He loves reading about Indian history and following his favourite soccer team, Arsenal, based in London, England.

The IWMF sends thanks and gratitude to Board members who have stepped down from their leadership roles in 2023: Ron Branscome (VA), David Kahn (FL), and Julie Richardson (KY).

A Video Message from Gu Hongfei of House 086

IWMF's Newest Partner Organization in China

IWMF ASH Meeting Follow Up

Last weekend, IWMF Board Trustees, staff members, and volunteers gathered in San Diego, CA at the American Society of Hematology (ASH) conference.

Peter DeNardis, IWMF Board Chair, attended the conference and shared that "As Chair of the IWMF Board of Trustees, it was my honor to represent the IWMF at this year's American Society of Hematology (ASH) Conference. It was my first ASH Conference, and what struck me immediately was the sheer number of hematologists and blood cancer researchers all gathered in one place (attendance numbers were around 30,000)!

IWMF staff and volunteers in attendance were paying close attention to posters and presentations regarding the latest ongoing research in WM (there were 69 abstracts that included details about the results of WM research). It's very encouraging to see how much the attention to WM has increased over the years - all a testament to the amazing research being conducted around the world, and the efforts by the IWMF to fund basic science and groundbreaking research for our disease.

Meetings were also conducted with non-profit partner organizations, and pharmaceutical company representatives to further the cause for WM patients and caregivers around the world. One of the highlights of the Conference was the annual IWMF Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) Meeting, with dedicated doctors and researchers in attendance to discuss the latest developments and how best to help the IWMF in the coming years. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to those on the SAC who volunteer their time to provide guidance and advice to the IWMF.

The entire weekend was a very uplifting and encouraging experience to be sure, and we can all look forward to amazing advances in the near future for better treatments and a cure for WM."

Looking for a Holiday Gift?

Join the IWMF Alaskan Cruise in 2024!

Are you ready to experience the beauty and wonder of Alaska like never before? Look no further than the IWMF Alaska Cruise! The IWMF cruise offers the perfect opportunity to explore the breathtaking scenery of Alaska while also enjoying the camaraderie of fellow travelers in our community.

With limited spots remaining, now is the time to book your spot on this unforgettable adventure. Our Alaska Cruise is the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind on the open water, taking in the stunning views of glaciers, fjords, and wildlife.

Joining the IWMF Alaska Cruise is more than just a vacation – it's a chance to connect with like-minded WM community members who share your passion for exploration and adventure. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity – book your spot on the IWMF Alaska Cruise today!

- Education -

Recording Available!

Cardio + Strength with Sharon

TODAY, December 15th at 12:30PM U.S. EST

Take an exercise class with ACE Certified Personal Trainer Sharon Piotrowski, who is also a WM community member! 

💪 This dynamic 30-minute low-impact workout combines cardiovascular exercises with strength training, and includes warm-up and warm-down. Great for all levels of fitness as Sharon will share modifications to keep you safe. Let's work together towards a healthier and stronger you! 

Email Ann Grace ([email protected]) to receive the Zoom link and follow-up recording. If you joined Sharon for any of her previous offerings, you are already on the mailing list.

A randomized study of 500+ participants published in Current Psychology in 2020 found that Yoga Nidra decreased stress levels, improved sleep quality, elevated well-being, and increased the mindfulness of the participants. Practice this guided relaxation while

lying down on a bed or on a couch. Contact [email protected] to receive our Zoom invite and follow-up recordings. 

Holiday Self Care - Thursday, Dec 21 at 1:00PM EST

Give yourself the gift of presence during this busy time of year! During this short, 20-min self care practice, we’ll manage stress through mindful movements designed to recharge your batteries and focus the mind. We’ll practice a short meditation to encourage connection and compassion during the holiday season, and conclude with a mini restorative sound bath. WM friends, staff, and caregivers are invited!

Reach out to [email protected] to receive the Zoom invitation (if you have attended any wellness event or class, you are automatically on our list.)

Waldenstrom's Weekly is a free service to WM community members to share WM related news and events. Click on downloading photos at the top to view all content. For more information, email [email protected] or visit www.IWMF.com