My doctor was able to secure a spot for me in the clinical trial at the University of Minnesota. They ran so many tests: all kinds of blood work, an EKG, and a brain MRI, to determine my eligibility. On the MRI there was a question about a spot in my brain, but after reviewing it, both my doctor and the trial doctor agreed that since it hasn’t changed since 2023, it’s unlikely to be cancerous. We’ll continue to monitor it with follow-up scans.

I received confirmation on Thursday from the nurse that I’m officially in the trial. This study is looking at VSV-GP,  a type of virus that selectively targets and kills cancer cells in the lab, and may stimulate the body’s immune system to fight tumors in the body. The virus replicates within cancer cells; this causes them to burst and release more of the virus which then infects nearby cancer cells and activates the body’s immune system. This is a Phase I study, meaning it is the first time the drug is being tested in humans, with the goal of determining a safe dose. The arm of the study I am in is using an IV administration of this virus in patients with advanced solid tumors.

I am scheduled to receive 5 infusions total. With the first 3 (February 3rd, 6th and 24th) they will biopsy a tumor in my liver to see how it is impacted, and they also want me to stay overnight at the U of M East Bank hospital for observation as there can be side effects and they want to be on top of it. There are also appointments between infusions to check in. 

I am a little nervous since this is so new and different. But I’m mostly feeling optimistic and grateful for this opportunity.