[dropcap]S[/dropcap]urprise and confusion filled Buda resident Shelly O’Donnell’s mind when told in August 2017 that she had contracted multiple myeloma, a rare blood cancer.

It was a jarring moment for O’Donnell, a longtime Hays High educator, whose diagnosis came as the result of blood work drawn during a routine check-up several weeks previous.

The shock was followed with the realization that her disease is not only rare, but is usually found in older, African-American men.

Ami...