A Courageous Journey Through Cancer by Ray Hartjen
When you're first diagnosed with cancer, everything changes—how you see the world, your daily routines, and your sense of self. For Ray Hartjen, the words “I’ve got cancer” became a constant echo in his mind, shaping every morning he woke and every night before he fell asleep.
His diagnosis of multiple myeloma in 2019 marked the beginning of a personal and powerful battle—one he now shares in his raw and uplifting multiple myeloma memoir, Me, Myself & My Multiple Myeloma.
Fighting Cancer with Music, Words, and Mission
When Ray wasn’t at the doctor’s office or undergoing treatment, he was channeling his energy into storytelling and songwriting. As part of his two-piece acoustic band, The Chronic Padres, he found an outlet for healing and creativity. This emotional depth flows through the pages of his multiple myeloma memoir, reminding us that even in illness, there is room for music, love, laughter—and most importantly, mission.
One of the strongest messages Ray emphasizes is the importance of living with purpose. He explores the question: What kind of legacy do I want to leave behind? For anyone fighting cancer or supporting a loved one through it, this memoir is a source of comfort, courage, and perspective.
Listen to his interview here:
A Real-Life Multiple Myeloma Memoir
Unlike many medical narratives, Ray’s multiple myeloma memoir doesn’t only recount hospital visits and lab results. Instead, it offers a deeply human perspective—a voice that is reflective, humorous, and painfully honest.
In this intimate memoir, Ray invites readers into his world as a cancer fighter, a musician, and a man trying to be a better role model for his loved ones and community. His story isn’t just about surviving; it’s about showing up each day with purpose and intention, despite the pain.
This multiple myeloma memoir offers more than just a personal account—it provides insight and hope for cancer patients, caregivers, and anyone facing chronic illness. Ray discusses:
The emotional rollercoaster of diagnosis
Navigating treatment plans, including stem cell transplant
The toll cancer takes on the body and soul
The value of mental and spiritual resilience
The evolving nature of identity through illness
Through humor, vulnerability, and strength, Ray brings readers along his journey—from fear and uncertainty to empowerment and grace.
A Courageous Journey Through Cancer
Whether you’re newly diagnosed, a caregiver seeking understanding, or simply someone who appreciates a moving human story, Me, Myself & My Multiple Myeloma belongs on your reading list. It reminds us that even in the darkest moments, there's always room for light—and a mission worth living for.