Client Story
Presentation
The patient, sponsored by his employer, utilized PHM after being diagnosed with metastatic colorectal cancer, including the aggressive BRAF V600E mutation. He partially responded to his first-line treatment of FOLFOX and Avastin and was nearing the completion of 12 cycles. Determined to pursue every possible option to fight the disease, he expressed a strong desire to eradicate the cancer, even if it meant sacrificing his quality of life. At one point saying, “I’m not leaving this Earth without trying my damnedest.”
PHM Actions
Leveraging their network, they arranged an international virtual consultation with targeted therapy experts at no cost. This team identified a promising and aggressive trial at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and coordinated virtual screenings, which the client was enthusiastic about pursuing.
To support his care, The PHM Care Team worked with his local provider to advocate for advanced imaging, including a PET scan, liver MRI, and repeat biopsy with genetic sequencing. Additionally, they helped the client and his wife navigate difficult discussions with their four children (ages four to 16) by arranging a consult with Child Life Services. They also provided holistic support, connecting the patient with an acupuncturist to help manage chemotherapy-induced neuropathy and offered practical advice for managing symptoms.
Outcome
There was optimism and excitement about enrolling in the aggressive NIH clinical trial. The treatment plan involved surgery to remove the primary colon tumor and debulk liver metastases, while harvesting tissue for tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy. The trial also included the placement of a hepatic arterial pump for targeted infusion of floxuridine (FUDR) and investigational IL12 cytokine therapy, combined with systemic FOLFIRI chemotherapy.
The PHM Difference
The PHM Care Team supported a young father of four by identifying ambitious treatment options that aligned with his determination to shoot for the moon. Through education on both evidence-based and experimental therapies, PHM offered hope for a path forward, inspiring resilience in the patient and his family.
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