A Life Fueled by Adventure – Even Through Cancer

(BPT) - For Jeff, an active lifestyle wasn't just a hobby - it was his identity. A lifelong athlete, Jeff thrived on adventure: sailing, fly fishing, hiking, climbing, softball, and soccer. Whether competing on the field or exploring the wilderness, he embraced life with boundless energy.

His love for sports also led him to the love of his life, Ramona. A mutual friend introduced them at an intramural softball game, and their shared passion for the outdoors solidified their connection. From exploring the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone to dreaming of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, their relationship has been filled with adventure.

For 42 years, Jeff made the most of city life in Chicago, where he built a dynamic career spanning the health and sports industries, technology, hospitality, and, for 30 years, commercial real estate.

But when a cancer diagnosis changed the trajectory of his life, he made a bold decision: to step away from the corporate world and instead pursue a passion.

An Unexpected Diagnosis

Jeff believes every cancer patient remembers the moment their journey with cancer began. For him, it started with a routine softball game.

After taking an aggressive swing, he felt a sharp pain in his back. The pain worsened overnight until, suddenly, his legs collapsed beneath him. A visit to the emergency room revealed no major issues - doctors attributed it to a common "weekend warrior" injury - but Jeff's primary care physician wasn't convinced and ordered an MRI.

That MRI changed Jeff's life.

Jeff and Ramona were called into the doctor's office to review the results in person. That moment told him everything. He had never heard of multiple myeloma before, but the word "-oma" resonated. He knew it meant a tumor.

At just 49 years old, Jeff was younger than the average multiple myeloma patient, for whom the median age at diagnosis is 69. While every patient's diagnosis is different, the news still came as a shock.

"Nobody ever thinks a simple injury could be something extreme," he says. "I wasn't even 50 - I was running marathons, in great shape. How could I have something that insidious happen to me?"

Despite the emotional rollercoaster that followed, Jeff's instinct was to research, investigate, and prepare. He was determined to face this battle head-on, and Ramona's meticulous planning became instrumental in navigating his treatment. Just two weeks after his diagnosis, Jeff's 50th birthday party proceeded as planned. He was surrounded by loved ones and grateful for their support - but couldn't ignore the quiet tears among close friends.

Jeff's Treatment Journey

Jeff's test results painted a grim picture. His multiple myeloma was so advanced that his Kappa Free Light Chain (KFLC), a type of protein produced by plasma cells that circulates freely in the blood, was over a staggering 1,400 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) - far beyond the normal levels of 0.33 to 1.94 mg/dL. His kidneys were on the brink of failure.

Jeff cycled through multiple treatments, each losing effectiveness over time. "Anyone who has been on the myeloma journey for any amount of time knows that they are on a drug until it doesn't work anymore or until they have to discontinue due to adverse events, and then there's a next step," he says.

That next step came when his doctor told him about bispecific antibodies. Jeff had already been researching TECVAYLI^® (teclistamab-cqyv) and found its potential promising. When his doctor recommended TECVAYLI^®, Jeff was relieved there was another option.

TECVAYLI^® is a prescription medicine to treat adults with multiple myeloma who have already received at least 4 treatment regimens, including a proteasome inhibitor, an immunomodulatory agent, and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody to treat their multiple myeloma, and their cancer has come back or did not respond to prior treatment. TECVAYLI^® is approved based on patient responses. There are ongoing studies to confirm the clinical benefit of TECVAYLI^®. It is not known if TECVAYLI^® is safe and effective in children.

TECVAYLI^®, a bispecific antibody, is the first treatment of its kind designed to fight multiple myeloma. TECVAYLI^® works by helping your immune system locate the multiple myeloma cells in your body. One side of TECVAYLI^® binds to proteins called CD3, which are found on your T cells. The other side binds to proteins called B-cell maturation antigens, which are found on multiple myeloma cells as well as some healthy cells. In doing so, TECVAYLI^® is able to activate the T cells in your immune system to destroy the multiple myeloma cells.

TECVAYLI^® is available as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection under the skin following step-up dosing. Step-up dosing is done to reduce the chance of getting Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS) and/or experiencing neurologic problems by slowly initiating TECVAYLI^® starting with a lower dose. Before each step-up dose and your first treatment dose, you will receive medicines to help reduce your risk and/or lessen the severity of a serious or life-threatening side effect known as CRS. You should be hospitalized for 48 hours after each dose in the step-up dosing schedule.

TECVAYLI^® was studied in 110 people with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who had previously received a proteasome inhibitor, an immunomodulatory agent, and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody. People in the clinical trial received TECVAYLI^® as a once-weekly dose following the step-up dosing schedule. Results showed that 62% of patients responded to TECVAYLI^®, 28% of those patients experienced a complete response or better, and patients saw their first response at a median of 1.2 months. Hematologic adverse events (any grade/grade 3/4) included neutropenia (72%/65%), anemia (55%/38%), thrombocytopenia (42%/23%), and lymphopenia (36%/35%). Infections occurred in 79% of patients (55% grade 3/4).

Starting TECVAYLI^® in March 2024, Jeff embraced the structured regimen, and the close monitoring by his care team helped to reassure him.

"Based on my experience, one advantage to TECVAYLI^® from an initial standpoint is its efficacy - it worked for me. I was relieved to hear that I was responding to TECVAYLI^®."

Every patient's journey with multiple myeloma is unique, and treatment experiences, efficacy, and side effects can vary from person to person. While TECVAYLI^® has been effective for Jeff, individual results may differ. Patients should consult their healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for their specific condition.

A New Perspective and a Bright Future

Back in 2010, Jeff faced an uncertain future. At the time, only a few drugs existed for the disease. Now, 15 years later, he stands as proof of medical progress.

"Everything is a moment in time. TECVAYLI^® is working for me, and time is everything."

Despite being treated for multiple myeloma, Jeff continues to live with purpose. He channels his experience into advocacy, mentoring other patients through the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation. With his wife Ramona by his side, he remains hopeful, embracing each day as another opportunity to support others on their own journeys.

As Jeff looks ahead, he remains grateful - for medical advancements, for his unwavering support system, and for the invaluable time he never thought he'd have.

Please review the Important Safety Information and see the full Prescribing Information including the Boxed Warning below. You can talk to your doctor if you have any questions. For more information, visit www.Tecvayli.com.

If one of Johnson & Johnson's treatments has made a difference in your life or the life of a loved one, consider joining the SHARE Network. Every story is unique. If you or a loved one are living with multiple myeloma, your story could have the ability to provide hope and inspiration to other patients. To learn more about the SHARE Network and how to share your story, visit www.sharemyjanssenstory.com.

What is TECVAYLI^® (teclistamab-cqyv)?

TECVAYLI^® is a prescription medicine to treat adults with multiple myeloma who:

• have already received at least 4 treatment regimens, including a proteasome inhibitor, an immunomodulatory agent and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody to treat their multiple myeloma, and
• their cancer has come back or did not respond to prior treatment

TECVAYLI^® was approved based on patient responses. There are ongoing studies to confirm the clinical benefit of TECVAYLI^®.
It is not known if TECVAYLI^® is safe and effective in children.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

What is the most important information I should know about TECVAYLI^®?

TECVAYLI^® may cause side effects that are serious, life-threatening, or lead to death, including Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS) and neurologic problems.

Call your healthcare provider right away if you develop any of the signs or symptoms of CRS or neurologic problems listed below at any time during your treatment with TECVAYLI^®:

Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS). Signs and symptoms of CRS may include:

Neurologic problems. Symptoms of neurologic problems with TECVAYLI^® include:

• Due to the risk of CRS and neurologic symptoms, you should be hospitalized for 48 hours after all doses of TECVAYLI^® that are part of the "step-up dosing schedule." The "step-up dosing schedule" is when you receive the first 2 doses of TECVAYLI^®, which are called "step-up doses," and then you receive the first "treatment dose" of TECVAYLI^®. After "step-up dose 1" of TECVAYLI^®, the dose of TECVAYLI^® is increased. After "step-up dose 2," the dose is increased again when you receive the first "treatment dose" of TECVAYLI^®.
  • "Step-up dose 1" is given on day 1 of treatment. "Step-up dose 2" is usually given on day 4 of treatment. The first "treatment dose" is usually given on day 7 of treatment.
  • Your healthcare provider will decide when you will receive "step-up dose 2" and your first "treatment dose."
    • "Step-up dose 2" may be given between 2 to 4 days after "step-up dose 1," or up to 7 days after "step-up dose 1" if you have certain side effects with TECVAYLI^®.
    • Your first "treatment dose" may be given between 2 to 4 days after "step-up dose 2," or up to 7 days after "step-up dose 2" if you have certain side effects with TECVAYLI^®.
  • Your healthcare provider will decide the number of days to wait between your doses of TECVAYLI^® as well as how many treatments you will receive.
  • If your dose of TECVAYLI^® is delayed for any reason, you may need to repeat the "step-up dosing schedule" to receive TECVAYLI^®.
  • Before each "step-up dose" and your first "treatment dose" of TECVAYLI^®, you will receive medicines to help reduce your risk of CRS. Your healthcare provider will decide if you need to receive medicines to help reduce your risk of CRS with future doses.
• Your healthcare provider will monitor you for signs and symptoms of CRS and neurologic problems during treatment with TECVAYLI^®, as well as other side effects, and treat you as needed.
• Do not drive or operate heavy or dangerous machinery during and for 48 hours after your TECVAYLI^® "step-up dosing schedule" is completed, or at any time during treatment with TECVAYLI^® if you develop new neurologic symptoms until the symptoms go away.

TECVAYLI^® is available only through the TECVAYLI^® and TALVEY™ Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) due to the risk of CRS and neurologic problems.

You will receive a Patient Wallet Card from your healthcare provider. Carry the Patient Wallet Card with you at all times and show it to all of your healthcare providers.The Patient Wallet Card lists signs and symptoms of CRS and neurologic problems.

Get medical help right away if you develop any of the signs and symptoms listed on the Patient Wallet Card. You may need to be treated in a hospital.

• If you have any questions about TECVAYLI^®, ask your healthcare provider.
• Your healthcare provider may temporarily stop or completely stop your treatment with TECVAYLI^® if you develop CRS, neurologic problems, or any other side effects that are severe.

See "What are the possible side effects of TECVAYLI^®?" for more information about side effects.

Before you receive TECVAYLI^®, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

• have an infection
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. TECVAYLI^® may harm your unborn baby.
  • Your healthcare provider should do a pregnancy test before you start treatment with TECVAYLI^®.
  • You should use effective birth control (contraception) during treatment and for 5 months after your last dose of TECVAYLI^®.
  • Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant or think that you may be pregnant during treatment with TECVAYLI^®.
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if TECVAYLI^® passes into your breast milk. Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 5 months after your last dose of TECVAYLI^®.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

How will I receive TECVAYLI^®?

• TECVAYLI^® will be given to you by your healthcare provider as an injection under your skin (subcutaneous injection), usually in your stomach area (abdomen). Your thigh or another area of your body may be injected.
• See "What is the most important information I should know about TECVAYLI^®?" at the beginning of this Important Safety Information for information about how you will receive TECVAYLI^®.

If you miss any appointments, call your healthcare provider as soon as possible to reschedule your appointment. It is important for you to be monitored closely for side effects during treatment with TECVAYLI^®.

What are the possible side effects of TECVAYLI^®?

TECVAYLI^® may cause serious side effects, including:

• See "What is the most important information I should know about TECVAYLI^®?"
• Liver problems. TECVAYLI^® can cause liver problems that may lead to death. Increased bilirubin and liver enzymes in your blood are common with TECVAYLI^® and can also sometimes be severe. These increases in liver enzymes can happen with or without you also having CRS. Your healthcare provider will monitor you for these problems before you start and during treatment with TECVAYLI^®. Tell your healthcare provider if you develop any symptoms of a liver problem including:

• Infections. Upper respiratory tract infections and pneumonia are common with TECVAYLI^®. TECVAYLI^® can cause bacterial and viral infections that are severe, life-threatening, or that may lead to death.
  • Your healthcare provider will monitor you for signs and symptoms of infection before and during treatment with TECVAYLI^®.
  • Your healthcare provider may prescribe medicines for you to help prevent infections, and treat you as needed if you develop an infection during treatment with TECVAYLI^®.
  • Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get a fever, chills, or any signs or symptoms of an infection.
• Decreased white blood cell counts. Decreased white blood cell counts are common with TECVAYLI^® and can also be severe. Fever sometimes also happens with low white blood cell counts and may be a sign that you have an infection. Your healthcare provider will check your blood cell counts before you start and during treatment with TECVAYLI^®, and treat you as needed.
• Allergic reactions and injection site reactions. TECVAYLI^® can cause allergic reactions that can affect your whole body (systemic), and also cause injection site reactions.
  • Some people taking TECVAYLI^® can develop symptoms of an allergic reaction that can affect their whole body and may include fever or a swollen tongue. Get medical help right away if you develop symptoms of an allergic reaction during treatment with TECVAYLI^®.
  • Injection site reactions are common with TECVAYLI^® and can include: redness, heat, swelling, bruising, bacterial skin infection (cellulitis), discomfort, blood collection under the skin at the injection site (hematoma), and rash. Tell your healthcare provider if you develop any severe injection site reactions.

Your healthcare provider may temporarily or permanently stop TECVAYLI^® if you have any of the side effects listed above and they are severe.

The most common side effects of TECVAYLI^® include:

The most common severe abnormal lab test results with TECVAYLI^® include: decreased white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets.

These are not all the possible side effects of TECVAYLI^®.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please read fullPrescribing Information, including Boxed WARNING, for TECVAYLI^®.

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© Johnson & Johnson and its affiliates 2025 06/25 cp-516034v1

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