How Immunotherapy Turned a Seemingly Dire Diagnosis into a Life Worth Living

Bob C.’s journey with lung cancer began unexpectedly. Five years ago, a routine CAT scan revealed a growth in his lung—one that would soon be diagnosed as stage IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), already metastasized to his adrenal gland. Bob was initially asymptomatic, but the discovery came too late for standard treatment to make much impact. After enduring multiple rounds of chemotherapy, which brought harsh side effects such as nosebleeds, fever, and low white blood cell counts, Bob was presented with a new option: a clinical trial under the guidance of Dr. Roy Herbst at Smilow Cancer Hospital.

Initially, Bob hoped to join Dr. Herbst’s BATTLE program, but high blood pressure disqualified him. Fortunately, Dr. Herbst also led a pioneering trial for an immunotherapy drug called Atezolizumab. This medication targets the PD-L1 protein, which prevents the immune system from attacking cancer cells. Bob began treatments every three weeks, and within the first year, scans showed significant shrinkage of the tumors in his lungs and adrenal gland. The trial, initially slated for a year, has now continued for three, keeping Bob’s cancer growth at bay with few side effects.

Although Bob did experience a recurrence in his adrenal gland that required surgery, and a new slow-growing lung nodule has since appeared, he remains largely free of symptoms and continues to enjoy life—pursuing hobbies like bird photography and relishing time with his wife. For Bob, participating in a clinical trial was a “no-brainer,” as it offered renewed hope when options seemed limited. He credits the supportive network at Smilow for treating him holistically, never rushing through appointments and always welcoming questions.

Nowadays, Bob’s primary challenge is keeping up with the normal pace of aging. Although he acknowledges his cancer may eventually progress, he treasures each day as a gift. His story stands as a testament to the remarkable strides being made in targeted immunotherapies and offers new hope for those diagnosed with advanced lung cancer.