NEW YORK – American actor James McCaffrey has passed away at the age of 65 after a battle with multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer, according to Variety. McCaffrey was best known for his work in the popular video game series Max Payne, where he voiced the title character, as well as for his role as Alex Casey in “Alan Wake 2.”
Fans of McCaffrey, as well as colleagues in the film and gaming industries, are remembering him for his talent and kindness. The news of his death was first reported by TMZ, with sources revealing that he succumbed to multiple myeloma.
Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer associated with the abnormal behavior of plasma cells—white blood cells responsible for antibody production. This form of cancer does not form as a lump or tumor, but rather its cells multiply in the bone marrow, disrupting the production of healthy blood cells, leading to symptoms in bones.
It is estimated that in 2023, around 3,900 Canadians would be diagnosed with myeloma, with 1,700 deaths expected. While the cause of myeloma remains unknown, it can develop in people with no identifiable risks, although men are at higher risk than women.
Known risks include a history of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance, family history of myeloma, obesity, farming, weakened immune system, and exposure to certain chemicals. A collaborative approach between patients and healthcare providers is crucial in managing this blood cancer.
Multiple myeloma follows a relapsing-remitting pattern, with periods of active disease requiring treatment and periods of stable disease controlled by treatment. There is no cure for myeloma, so awareness, early detection, and a collaborative approach are important in managing this disease.