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TIL Talks
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  • Your TIL Speaker

TIL Talks Guest

9. Carolyn Leigh-Metastatic Breast Cancer-CAR-T

. In this conversation, Chris and Carolyn discuss Carolyn's personal journey with breast cancer, her advocacy work in immunotherapy, and the challenges faced in navigating clinical trials. They delve into the complexities of breast cancer subtypes and the importance of funding for cancer research, particularly in relation to innovative therapies like TIL therapy. Carolyn shares her experiences with North Star Cancer Advocacy and the need for increased awareness and education in the cancer community. In this conversation, Chris and Carolyn discuss the evolving landscape of cancer treatment, particularly focusing on immunotherapy and the importance of patient advocacy. They explore the financial aspects of cancer research, the necessity for patients to be informed advocates for their own health, and the critical role of continuing education for medical professionals. Carolyn shares her personal experiences with cancer treatment and the lessons learned about trusting one's instincts in medical decisions. The discussion also highlights innovative approaches in clinical trials and the future of cancer therapies. In this conversation, Carolyn Leigh discusses her experiences with CAR T therapy, including the challenges of monitoring pseudo progression, the importance of tracking CAR T cell persistence, and the side effects associated with the treatment. She emphasizes the need for effective communication with healthcare providers and the significance of patient advocacy in navigating clinical trials. The discussion also touches on the logistics of treatment, the infusion experience, and the importance of comfort during hospital stays. Carolyn highlights the necessity for patients to conduct their own research and be proactive in seeking clinical trials, as well as the need for breakthroughs in preclinical research to translate into clinical practice more rapidly. In this conversation, Chris and Carolyn discuss the importance of diet and pH levels in cancer treatment, the need for early participation in clinical trials, and the challenges faced by cancer survivors. They emphasize the necessity of advocating for better treatment options and the importance of mental health in survivorship. The discussion also covers innovative approaches to cancer treatment and the need for a more efficient healthcare system that prioritizes patient outcomes. 

7-8. Bill Heyman-Metastatic Melanoma-Til Therapy

 Summary

In this conversation, Bill Heyman shares his personal journey as a melanoma survivor, detailing his diagnosis, treatment options, and the emotional rollercoaster of battling cancer. He discusses the challenges he faced with initial treatments, the decision to pursue tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy, and the impact of his illness on his family, particularly as his wife was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia around the same time. Bill's story highlights the importance of personalized medicine and the resilience required to navigate the complexities of cancer treatment. In this conversation, Bill Heyman shares his profound journey through cancer treatment, highlighting the challenges faced as both a patient and caregiver. He discusses the critical role of caregivers, the intense IL-2 treatment process, and the recovery phase filled with side effects. Bill emphasizes the importance of federal research at NIH, celebrating milestones in his health journey, and the distinction between remission and cure in cancer treatment. In this conversation, Chris and Bill discuss the complexities of cancer treatment, particularly focusing on living biologics and their approval process. They share personal experiences with side effects, emphasizing the psychological impact of treatment and the importance of community support. The discussion highlights gratitude towards medical professionals and the significance of patient stories in inspiring hope for others facing similar challenges. They also touch on future topics for discussion, including mental health aspects of survivorship. 

Learn more about Bill Heyman, Metastatic Melanoma, & TIL Therapy

6. Victoria Gray-Sickle Cell Disease-CRISPR Gene Editing

 Summary

In this episode of Tilt Talks, Victoria Gray shares her incredible journey living with sickle cell disease and her groundbreaking experience as the first person to undergo CRISPR gene therapy. From her early diagnosis and the challenges of living with a chronic illness to the hope and transformation brought by innovative medical treatments, Victoria's story is one of resilience, faith, and the pursuit of a better life. She discusses the emotional and physical toll of her condition, the stigma faced in healthcare, and the pivotal moments that led her to seek out new treatment options. Through her narrative, listeners gain insight into the complexities of sickle cell disease, the potential of gene therapy, and the importance of compassionate healthcare. In this conversation, Victoria shares her journey through a groundbreaking clinical trial for sickle cell disease, discussing the challenges and triumphs of her recovery. She emphasizes the importance of monitoring and follow-up care, the significance of being a pioneer in clinical trials, and the transformative potential of gene therapy. The discussion also touches on pain management, the emotional aspects of withdrawal from opioids, and the future of sickle cell treatment. Victoria advocates for patient voices to be amplified in the healthcare system, highlighting the need for affordable treatments and the importance of community support.

Learn more about Victoria, Sickle Cell, & CRISPR

5. Garry Keller-Mucosal Melanoma-TIL Therapy

Summary

In this conversation, Chris and Garry share their personal experiences with cancer, focusing on their journeys through clinical trials, the psychological challenges they faced, and the importance of maintaining physical activity during treatment. They discuss the impact of cancer on their families, the significance of connecting with other patients, and the role of their oncologist, Dr. Medina. The conversation also touches on the future of cancer treatments, survivor guilt, and the importance of mental health support. In this conversation, Chris and Garry discuss their experiences with cancer treatment, focusing on the emotional and physical challenges they faced. They share insights on navigating clinical trials, managing long-term side effects, and the importance of mental health during recovery. The discussion also touches on their shared passion for snowboarding and how they adapt to new challenges post-treatment. Ultimately, they reflect on resilience, the value of life, and the importance of community support.

Learn more Bill, MUCOSAL Melanoma, & TIL Therapy

3-4. Melinda Bachini-Cholangiocarcinoma-TIL Therapy

Summary

In this conversation, Melinda Bachini shares her inspiring journey as a 15-year survivor of stage four cholangiocarcinoma. She discusses her initial diagnosis, the challenges she faced in treatment decisions, and her eventual discovery of TIL therapy. Melinda emphasizes the importance of patient advocacy, navigating insurance hurdles, and the support of her family throughout her journey. Her story highlights the significance of clinical trials and the impact of innovative treatments on survival rates for rare cancers. In this conversation, Melinda Bachini and Chris discuss the multifaceted challenges faced by cancer patients and their families, including the emotional and financial burdens of caregiving, the importance of clinical trials, and the role of patient advocacy. They share personal experiences of navigating the healthcare system, the adjustments to life after treatment, and the significance of providing hope and support to others facing similar diagnoses. In this conversation, Chris and Melinda discuss the profound impact of sharing personal stories in the context of cancer survivorship. They emphasize the importance of community, connection, and advocacy in navigating clinical trials and treatment options. Melinda shares her journey with cholangiocarcinoma and the significance of being a voice for patients, while Chris highlights the therapeutic benefits of connecting with others who have faced similar challenges. They also touch on the need for visibility in the cancer community and the potential of writing to share experiences and inspire hope.

Learn more about Melinda, Cholangiocarcinoma, & TIL Therapy

1-2. Katie Doble-Ocular Melanoma-TIL Therapy

Summary

In this conversation, Chris and Katie discuss the challenges and experiences surrounding rare diseases, particularly ocular melanoma. They share personal stories about diagnosis, treatment options, and the importance of building a supportive medical team. The discussion highlights the emotional toll of cancer treatment, the significance of patient advocacy, and the journey towards recovery and normalcy after treatment. In this conversation, Katie Doble shares her journey through cancer treatment, emphasizing the importance of work, emotional recovery, and the support of family and friends. She discusses her experiences with surgeries, the emotional toll of survivorship, and the role of advocacy in the cancer community. Katie highlights the significance of clinical research and the need for patient stories in advancing treatment options. She also touches on her journey of writing a book and the importance of sharing knowledge with others facing similar challenges.

Learn more about Katie, OCULAR/Uveal Melanoma, & TIL THERSPY

*Disclaimer*

 As a reminder, I am not a medical professional or medical expert, I am only a professional and expert on My Story and My Experience. If you are needing or seeking medical advice or assistance, please reach out your CARE Team.


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