Pianist Giovanni Allevi Returns to Stage After Battling Multiple Myeloma
After a difficult and painful journey battling multiple myeloma, renowned pianist and composer Giovanni Allevi made his return to the stage at the Sanremo Festival. The 54-year-old musician had announced his diagnosis of the rare cancer on Instagram in June 2022, updating his fans on his health conditions through social media.
Allevi’s battle with multiple myeloma began after he experienced excruciating back pain, which led to tests and the discovery of the tumor affecting the cells in his bone marrow. Paolo Corradini, president of the Italian Society of Hematology, explained that the abnormal growth of tumor plasma cells can cause a reduction in the production of blood cells, leading to symptoms such as anemia, fatigue, susceptibility to infections, and bone pain.
Although Allevi’s return to the stage is a significant milestone, the journey ahead is still challenging. Multiple myeloma is known for frequent relapses, with almost 9 out of 10 patients experiencing a relapse over time. However, advancements in treatment have significantly extended the survival of patients, offering hope for recovery.
Michele Cavo, director of the Seràgnoli Institute of Hematology at the University of Bologna, highlighted the progress in therapeutic approaches and the combination of different medications to target the tumor on multiple fronts. New therapies, such as bispecific antibodies and CAR-T, are also on the horizon, offering further hope for patients who have not responded to standard treatments.
The causes of multiple myeloma are still unknown, but the disease predominantly affects people over 65. With approximately 4,500 new cases diagnosed each year in Italy, the majority of patients are over 50 years old. However, advancements in treatment have led to an increase in life expectancy for those battling the disease.
Allevi’s return to the stage serves as a testament to his resilience and the advancements in treating multiple myeloma. As he continues his journey, he remains a source of inspiration for those facing similar battles and a reminder of the progress being made in the fight against cancer.