Triumph Against All Odds
Doreen Sevilla’s journey is a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of cutting-edge medical treatments. Diagnosed with NTRK gene-mutated adenocarcinoma, an aggressive and rare form of cancer, Doreen fought an uphill battle to become No Evidence of Disease (NED). Her story shines a spotlight on the impact of immunotherapy and the importance of continued cancer research.
A Critical Care Nurse Faces Her Own Battle - Doreen Sevilla’s Journey
As a critical care nurse with 38 years of experience, Doreen Sevilla’s journey was no stranger to the medical world. But in 2020, she found herself on the other side of care when she began experiencing troubling stomach issues. Initially attributed to stress and anxiety, her symptoms worsened until she discovered she had NTRK gene-mutated adenocarcinoma. Despite the devastating diagnosis and the lack of a definitive cure, Doreen was determined to fight.
The Early Stages of Treatment
Doreen Sevilla’s Journey treatment began with chemotherapy, which temporarily stunned the cancer. However, the disease returned aggressively, spreading to her liver and leading to a complex eight-hour surgery. Despite her surgeon’s efforts, 30 tumors remained. This daunting situation didn’t deter Doreen. She turned to faith, leaning on her family, friends, and community for strength.
A Breakthrough with Immunotherapy
Hope came in the form of immunotherapy. Doreen Sevilla’s Journey started on Keytruda, which slowed the cancer’s progression, though it wasn’t a cure. In early 2022, a new breakthrough arrived. The FDA approved Vitrakvi, a drug that, when combined with Keytruda, offered a chance at controlling her cancer. By May 2022, just two months after starting the new treatment, Doreen’s PET scan showed remarkable results—she was No Evidence of Disease.
Advocacy and Research for a Better Future
Now, Doreen channels her experience into advocacy. She participates in cancer research to help develop new treatments and urges others to support immunotherapy advancements. Her journey reminds us that innovation and perseverance can transform lives.
Inspiring Hope for All Patients
Doreen Sevilla’s Journey exemplifies why ongoing research and patient advocacy are vital. By sharing her triumph, she inspires others to believe in the possibility of a cure and encourages support for groundbreaking cancer treatments.