Lombard village president rebounding from cancer

Lombard Village President William Mueller took some time this week to update the community on his health and thank everyone for their support during his latest battle with cancer.

"I just can't say enough," Mueller said during Thursday night's village board meeting. "I've got cards and notes from people I don't know. I can't thank everyone enough. You people are just the greatest. Your support has been tremendous."

The 72-year-old has undergone 14 chemotherapy treatments since being diagnosed earlier this year with multiple myeloma, a form of bone cancer caused by malignant plasma cells living in bone marrow.

Mueller said he is in remission but will continue monthly treatments to keep the incurable disease at bay. He's also getting monthly bone strengthening treatments and using a cane to get around meanwhile.

Getting choked up at times, Mueller said he had a scare after his last treatment that landed him back in the hospital.

"I didn't think I was going to make it," he said.

But he said he's on the upswing, his spirits also buoyed by the knowledge that a fellow politician in Elmhurst has the same disease and has been in remission for several years.