Michael Morley Lecture
The Michael Morley lecture is a key event for the UK Myeloma Society, taking place at the Autumn and Spring meetings twice yearly. Internationally renowned scientists, allied healthcare professionals or clinicians with an interest in myeloma are asked to present the lecture on their particular area of expertise. The first lecture was in 2006 and was given by Prof Michael Kuehl.
The lecture has been made possible by the donation from the Morley family, following the death of Michael Morley. A fund in his name has been set up to assist the UKMS in promoting knowledge and education about myeloma, and goes towards the lecture itself, as well as travel bursaries which allow attendance to key Myeloma meetings for UK health professionals.
Below, Oliver Morley (Michael’s son), has written a moving explanation of the legacy.
“In 1999, my father finally died from myeloma after an 8 year fight against the disease. At the onset, the median life expectancy was, I recall, 14 months. Three things kept him going for so much longer, with – for a good period of time – a high quality of life.
First, his own indomitable spirit, and the support of my mother, family and friends. He saw myeloma as a challenge – a puzzle – to beat every day.
Second, his consultant, Mr Singer, and the nurses and hospital staff who supported him so incredibly.
Third, and not least, the innovations in treatment and medication through the 8 years he fought with the disease. It seemed almost annually that there would be a new development – a new opportunity.
In the end, of course, Michael Morley did lose the battle but our whole family were so grateful for the extra time with him. It was a chance for us to say ‘goodbye’ properly, and for him to see his first grandchildren.
In this spirit, friends and family instituted the Michael Morley lecture and fund. Our hope is to reflect and inspire innovations in myeloma treatment for the future. The lecture is not only in his memory but also for those patients who still have the battle to come.”