In 2014, Larry Carlson was diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer.
He knew his prognosis was very concerning. Even more concerning was that, despite several surgeries, the cancer still metastasized. But it was from this seemingly insurmountable situation that Larry found hope.
It was shortly after his diagnosis...
that Larry came to UT Southwestern’s Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center and began working with Dr. James Brugarolas. He suggested that Larry participate in a clinical trial using a pioneering immunotherapy treatment to attack the cancer – a treatment with fantastic results.
As Larry puts it, “Everything’s stopped growing. … I’m not in what you would call necessarily remission, but there’s no further cancer at all. Basically, people that were where I was at the start normally don’t last two years, and I’m past three, heading for four. I’m looking for a long, happy future in my 70s,” says Larry.
Basically, people that were where I was at the start normally don’t last two years, and I’m past three, heading for four.
Today, Larry spends his life enjoying the moments he thought he might never have again. Larry’s love for his wife and family finds new expression through the appreciation he has for even the smallest things in life. From fishing with his grandson to enjoying his granddaughter’s passion for ballet, he’s found fulfillment in seeing his family grow and watching the wonderful life he’s created going on around him.
Dr. Brugarolas’ perspective: Treating cancer with a one-two punch
Discover how immunotherapy and radiation combine to treat Larry’s cancer.
Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center
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