Myeloma Patients Europe (MPE) is proud to announce the launch of the Care Connect Programme, a new initiative dedicated to strengthening support for carers of people living with myeloma and AL amyloidosis across Europe. 

Carers play a vital role in the lives of patients, providing emotional support, practical assistance, care coordination, and advocacy throughout the myeloma pathway. However, feedback from MPE member organisations has highlighted a significant need for more educational resources, organisational support, peer-to-peer connection and recognition for carers at both national and European levels.

MPE’s strategic goals 2025 – 2030 set out our clear commitment to “identify and address the needs of carers.” As part of this commitment, the Care Connect Programme will: 

• Support the development of national carer initiatives 

• Launch the Care Connect Grants Programme for MPE members – now open for applications 

• Develop dedicated information resources for carers 

• Advance carer-focused research 

• Strengthen policy and advocacy efforts for carers in Europe 

“We as carers or advocates for our loved ones must always keep in mind that we are accompanying someone on a long and complex road ahead and it is important to maintain and sustain our wellbeing and quality of life to be able to improve comfort and quality of life for our loved ones,” said MPE Vice President of the Board and Carer, Diane Loening-Martens. 

Diane also highlighted the sudden change in roles that accompanies a diagnosis.  

“A myeloma diagnosis is a life altering event. From the moment of diagnosis, the future expectations, daily routines and relationship dynamics of both the person who has just received the diagnosis and their loved ones shift completely,” she said. “Maybe partners or family members don’t call themselves carers, but in fact if they are giving emotional, physical and psychological support to their loved one, they are playing the role of a carer, supporter or companion.”  

Through the Care Connect Programme, MPE aims to build stronger support systems for carers, facilitate knowledge sharing between organisations and ensure that carers are recognised as essential partners in healthcare.