Stand with Timo: Facing Multiple Myeloma

Story

Timo’s journey began on February 20th with what seemed like a minor inconvenience—a dull ache in his lower back. As a healthy, active 31-year-old, he figured it was nothing a little stretching or rest couldn’t fix. But the pain didn’t go away. It got worse, radiating down his legs, making everyday things like driving, running, or even standing painful and difficult.

We assumed it was sciatica and began the frustrating cycle of doctor visits and medications that offered no relief. Weeks passed, and the pain slowly took over more of his life. He had to take medical leave from his job as a flight attendant. It wasn’t until April 29th—over a month later, after battling with insurance and endless scheduling—that an MRI was finally approved.

Hours after the scan, we got a call. The doctor wanted to see Timo first thing the next morning. Our hearts sank. The MRI revealed a mass pressing on his spine near the L2 nerve. In true Timo fashion, he tried to ease the tension by naming it “Tammy the Tumor.” But beneath the humor, we were stunned and scared. How did we go from back pain to a tumor?

In the midst of all this, one person became a true lifeline: Timo’s best friend, Morgan. She’s a Hematology/Oncology Physician Assistant at Memorial Sloan Kettering, and her knowledge, guidance, and fierce advocacy have been absolutely pivotal. From day one, she’s been helping us ask the right questions, interpret confusing results, and find the path forward. We can’t overstate what her support has meant to us.

We were referred to a neurosurgeon at UCSF, and initially, it looked like surgery would be the solution. But more tests raised red flags. A biopsy was ordered, and bloodwork showed anemia and low white blood cell counts. Suddenly, doctors were talking about possible blood cancers—leukemia or lymphoma.

Then came May 19th. Timo woke up with numbness in his arms and legs. We rushed to the ER. After a long, emotional day of scans and tests, he was admitted for monitoring. That night changed everything. A team of specialists reviewed his case and suspected Multiple Myeloma—a rare blood cancer. A bone marrow biopsy and PET scan confirmed it. The tumor? A Plasmacytoma—one of the early signs.

Devastated doesn’t begin to describe how we felt. What started as back pain has turned our world completely upside down. But now, we have answers. We know what we’re facing. And Timo is ready to fight.

The love and support from our family and friends has meant everything—it’s been a steady light in an overwhelming time. We’ll continue to share updates and with love, strength, and a little radiation, we’re going to beat Tammy the Tumor.

Organizers :

Peter Brzozowski is organizing this fundraiser.