Father's immunotherapy trial has ended.......now what?

Hi everyone, 

My father has been living with metastatic bladder cancer. Two years ago when the chemotherapy was no longer effective, we were given this lifeline. Immunotherapy. The drug is Tecentriq and very recently the 2yr trial has come to an end. My father's response to this has been incredible and it has stabilised the diseased. So he isn't in remission, but the tumour has no longer grown and he has continued living his life. 

The actual consultant has said he will try to get in touch with the drug company and believes that my father's body should be capable of fighting it without further treatment and therefore they will monitor him. 

However, a very close retired oncologist who is an exceptional doctor said these statements are not based on large statistics and are mere statements without any evidence behind them and therefore stopping this is a colossal risk. 

I am now trying to find ways whereby we can extend this treatment, but we don't know who to get in touch with and what the best way forward would be? 

Has anyone experienced or know of the best approach?

Thank you

Zack

  • Hello Zack, 

    Thanks for sharing your story. It is excellent news that your father has responded so well to the immunotherapy trial and that it has given him quality of life in the last couple of years. It's good the consultant is going to get in touch with the drug company and I hope that you will get some useful information from them on whether it might be worth extending your dad's treatment. 

    It might be a good idea to give our nurses a ring on this free number 0808 800 4040 and talk things through with them- their line is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and they may be able to point you in the right direction as what the best approach might be in your particular circumstances. 

    I hope your dad continues to keep well - it's great to hear such positive news about the effect of his immunotherapy trial. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator