In this episode of Marrow Masters, we hear the journey of married couple Dave and Laurie Brock, as they share their experience with CAR T-cell therapy— one Dave very recently underwent. The Brocks provide an inspiring and honest account of navigating this complex treatment process. Dave, diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2015, had an eight-year remission following a stem cell transplant. When he relapsed earlier this year, his doctor, Dr. Abdullah at the University of Kansas Medical Center, recommended CAR T-cell therapy, which had just been FDA-approved for patients in his position. Dave recalls his surprise that what once felt like a “futuristic” option was now available and could be pursued immediately.

As Dave began CAR T- cell therapy, he leaned on advice he received early in his treatment: maintain a positive attitude, be informed, and work closely with his healthcare team. Physical fitness played a crucial role in his journey, allowing him to hike and stay active, which he believes aided his recovery. However, the therapy wasn’t without challenges. He experienced significant fatigue, developed Bell's palsy as a side effect, and had to constantly monitor for signs of neurotoxicity.

Laurie is Dave's "care partner," not "care giver." And she describes the intensive nature of navigating CAR T- cell therapy. She monitored Dave around the clock, prepared their home with stringent health protocols, and managed the complexities of his medication and appointments. Laurie’s commitment required self-sacrifice; she isolated from family and even stopped going to the gym to protect Dave from exposure to illness. However, she also found unexpected joy in the time spent alone with Dave, as they grew closer through shared activities and humor.

Both Dave and Laurie emphasize gratitude—appreciating their medical team, the support of their community, and the positive outcomes of CAR T-cell therapy. Their care team was deeply invested in their success, with doctors even celebrating with them on day 31 when test results confirmed Dave was in remission. Dave reflects on how fortunate he feels for his proximity to the clinic and his medical staff’s expertise, acknowledging the importance of clinical trials and the contributions of previous patients in advancing treatments like CAR T.

The episode closes with Dave’s reminder: we’re all in this together, underscoring the value of community, support systems, and the role that clinical trials play in the ongoing advancements in cancer treatment. He also shares his gratitude for anyone who's participated in a clinical trial. Without them, he wouldn't have had the opportunity to undergo this cutting-edge treatment.

This season is made possible thanks to our sponsors:

Kite, a Gilead company: http://www.kitepharma.com/

and Bristol Myers Squibb's CAR T support services program:https://www.celltherapy360.com/

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