Over 6,000 new cases of leukemia are currently being diagnosed in Canada every year with a projected doubling of that number in the next 2 decades. With present treatments (that have barely changed in 3 decades), overall 5-year survival rates are at best ~50% (the 9th worst prognosis for all cancer types) and the long-term quality of life in many of these survivors is significantly compromised. Clearly new treatment strategies are urgently needed.

Multiple Myeloma is a blood cancer that is associated with the abnormal behavior and uncontrolled growth of white blood cells. > 2200 Canadians are newly diagnosed in Canada per year and the disease remains relatively unknown. To date there is no cure, but advancements in research and treatment are enabling patients to live better and longer lives than before.