Los Angeles, California – Actor James McCaffrey, known for his roles in popular video games like Max Payne and Alan Wake 2, has passed away at the age of 65 after battling cancer, Variety reported.
McCaffrey was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer that affects plasma cells responsible for antibody production. Fans and colleagues in the film and gaming industries are remembering him for his talent and kindness.
Multiple myeloma, which can impact various parts of the body such as bones and kidneys, is a form of cancer that doesn’t manifest as a lump or tumor. It disrupts the production of healthy blood cells in the bone marrow.
While the exact cause of myeloma is unknown, it can develop in individuals with no identifiable risks. Men are at higher risk than women. Some known risk factors include a history of plasma cell disorders, family history of myeloma, obesity, and occupational exposure, among others.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for myeloma. The disease follows a relapsing-remitting pattern, alternating between active periods requiring treatment and periods of remission.
Symptoms of myeloma may not appear in its early stages, but common signs include high blood calcium levels, kidney problems, anemia, and bone disease.
Early detection and a collaborative approach between patients and healthcare providers are crucial in managing multiple myeloma. Research into the risk factors and treatment options for the disease continues.
In Canada, it was estimated that around 3,900 individuals would be diagnosed with myeloma in 2023, with 1,700 of them succumbing to the disease. As the world mourns the loss of James McCaffrey, his legacy in the entertainment industry lives on.