Michael Riotto
Michael’s journey through the maze of chemotherapy, radiation, surgeries, broken bones, stem cell transplant, and way more has led to where he is right now….educating and helping others. He considers himself to be a very positive, hopeful, thankful, gracious, appreciative, and resilient person. All his trials and tribulations have taught Michael that life is a gift not to be wasted. You get one opportunity to live it to the fullest, so do not throw it away. That means finding new opportunities when one door closes. It means being passionate, compassionate, and relentless. Michael is passionate in his efforts to help others on their journeys to understanding, acceptance, education, and strength. Myeloma and all chronic illnesses are difficult diseases, medically and mentally. If Michael can help just one person navigate to a better life, he will feel like he has made a difference.
Michael’s story began in July 2011 when I was 51 years old. He took a tumble in the waves at the beach which resulted in a fractured neck. The results showed bones that his doctor described as “moth eaten.” His wife and himself were completely shocked and clueless—they did not even know this disease existed. Michael underwent several rounds of induction chemotherapy and infusions. Within a few days of his first treatment, he began doing some research and soon approached his doctor about autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT). On December 29, 2011, he had an autologous stem cell transplant at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. Michael continued maintenance therapy for 9 years till December of 2019. He is currently on a ‘drug holiday” with no active treatments.
Michael’s biggest challenge today is not being able to do everything he thinks he should be able to do. Because his bones are brittle, it is a fine line between pushing himself and protecting himself. It is something he is learning to work on every day…. patience. His wife and family have been a huge source of support. Michael wants to live longer and stronger and be around for them, so he needs to protect himself and give himself grace.
Having this disease has closed a lot of doors, but it has opened many others. This diagnosis has brought Michael to an entirely new place in mind, body, and soul. Michael loves to exercise, especially walk, because it clears his mind. Being able to help other myeloma patients navigate their journeys is another door that has opened for him. Upon retiring, Michael found his passion in patient advocacy. Working with several patient advocacy groups, including Patients Rising Now, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Rare Disease Life Foundation, Patient Access Network, International Myeloma Foundation, and others, to tell his story to organizations, government officials, support groups and more to make a difference. Michael advocates for change, he advocates for those that cannot, will not or are just unable to.
On a personal note, Michael enjoys spending time with his wife of 36 years, Monique, and his two adult children, Christina, and Theodore. He loves to read, garden and considers himself a true foodie! Michael loves nature, and spending as much time outdoors, hiking, walking, and taking in the landscape as possible. Michael is an avid health and fitness person and he loves setting goals for himself. He has reached many of them and is looking forward to fulfilling his future goals as he continues this incredible journey of life. Michael truly believes in living life every day to the fullest.