Matthew said it came as a shock to be told the cancer was incurable.
“I have lost two inches in height because of the damage but at least it’s treatable and I’ve responded to treatment as well as they could expect,” he said.
While he is in remission, Matthew has had to grapple with unexpected side effects of the intensive treatment.
The draughtsman, who creates technical drawings for electrical engineers, is still dealing with fatigue and was hospitalised with infections three times last winter.
While his back has healed to an extent, the damage is irreversible.
He said it had been a difficult time for his family, especially his wife Diane, adding he was “eternally grateful” for their unwavering support.
“You can’t just ignore myeloma sadly, but you can put it at the back of your mind.
“We’ve officially called 12 March 2024 my remission date and that’s what I focus on.
“That’s my mark saying, the myeloma had been put to sleep.
“It will rear its head at some point, but hopefully I can get many years with it before it comes back.”
For now, Matthew is determined to live a full life again.
“I can’t do anything that will impact my back but we’ve been able to live as normal a life as possible. You can’t let myeloma define you.”