Patient's Positive Experience with Clinical Trial Offers Hope for Cancer Treatment
"Trust in science and take the leap of faith," advised Laura, a patient of New York Cancer and Blood Specialists (NYCBS), who was diagnosed with follicular lymphoma after her annual mammogram and sonogram in April 2021. Despite being asymptomatic initially, Laura's doctor at NYCBS, Dr. Alexander Zuhoski, decided to closely monitor her cancer with PET scans every six months.
However, in July 2022, Laura's cancer progressed to become a double-hit follicular lymphoma with a mutation that could not be treated with traditional chemotherapy and biological infusion. That's when the research team at NYCBS and Dr. Zuhoski presented Laura with an alternative option - a clinical trial involving a subcutaneous injection in the stomach, which was a 17-cycle immunological treatment every three weeks instead of traditional chemotherapy.
Initially apprehensive, Laura's fears were allayed after speaking with the research team, who addressed all her concerns and provided her with comprehensive information about the possible side effects. Laura's friend's positive experience with a clinical trial further boosted her confidence, and she decided to participate in the trial.
Clinical trials allow researchers to find better treatments for others in the future, and without volunteers, these treatments would not be found. Laura's experience with the clinical trial was positive, and although she experienced a few minor side effects like rashes and peeling skin, the NYCBS staff was always available to provide her with hydration and answer any questions.
Laura advises other patients who are on the fence about participating in clinical trials to speak to their doctors and research teams and consider the benefits. She also notes that clinical trials have come a long way, and with the constant advancements in medicine, patients can be hopeful about finding new ways to fight cancer.
Clinical trials allow researchers to find better treatments for others in the future and without volunteers, these treatments would not be found.
Dr. Zuhoski acknowledged that Laura's follicular lymphoma might return in the future, but he is optimistic that with the immunotherapy, her body will retain the ability to fight it effectively.
Laura's journey highlights the importance of exploring all possible treatment options, including clinical trials, and trusting in medical science to improve the lives of cancer patients. With each advancement in medicine, the future looks brighter for cancer patients like Laura.