Chad Royer, longtime member of Bronx Community Board (CB7) and chair of the CB7 veterans committee, has, as reported, been undergoing treatment in recent months for multiple myeloma, an incurable but treatable form of blood cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow. He recently shared an update on his health with Norwood News.

 

According to his wife, Kpana Kpoto, after dealing with debilitating back pain over the past two years, and on receiving the shocking diagnosis last year, Royer went from being an active father and community member to becoming bedbound for some time. Consequently, he ended up in the hospital before Thanksgiving and was diagnosed shortly after.

 

Royer serves on parent associations at local schools and has been a staunch advocate for U.S. veterans and for people with disabilities. Kpoto said he received weekly treatment for his cancer, which included chemotherapy and recently underwent a stem cell transplant, for which he is currently hospitalized. Royer and his family are hopeful that his transplant sends his cancer into remission.

 

Speaking to Norwood News in April, Royer said he was immensely grateful to everyone to date for their ongoing support, is adapting to the latest stage of his medical journey which has involved the loss of his hair, and is feeling hopeful he will be home soon. He is documenting his journey via his YouTube channel, which he hopes people can watch to help raise awareness about multiple myeloma. According to Kpoto, he is also looking forward to going into remission and catching some Mets games this fall.

On Royer’s GoFundMe page, Kpoto, who organized the fundraiser, said there are still many costs associated with Royer’s illness. These include medical costs from doctor visits, surgery while hospitalized, and rehabilitation and home care, which includes physical and occupational therapy.

 

They also include hospitalization during his stem cell transplant, medication and transportation costs to and from appointments, and other expenses, including the cost of food and comfort items to help him manage his intense treatments. “Every dollar you donate will bring us closer to our goal, which is to fight this cancer and improve Chad’s quality of life,” wrote Kpoto. “Thank you so much, and God bless.”

 

Anyone wishing to donate can do so on the following Go Fund Me page and the link to Royer’s YouTube channel is here. Donors are advised that Royer will be the beneficiary of all funds donated and will have complete control over and access to those funds.

 

To learn more about Multiple Myeloma, click here.