Kansas City, KS- Matt Larson, a 47-year-old lawyer and wrestling ringmaster, was diagnosed with stage four renal cell carcinoma after a car crash revealed a mass on his right kidney.
Treated at the University of Kansas Cancer Center, he underwent surgery to remove his kidney, adrenal gland, and lymph nodes, followed by 17 immunotherapy treatments. Despite initial fears, he has been cancer-free for over three years and has lost 100 pounds.
Matt Larsen, patient
Matt jokes about the car crash that led to his diagnosis, saying it was a "kick in the butt" that changed his life for the better.
He shares his initial reaction to the stage four diagnosis, feeling shock and anger but eventually finding hope through his care team.
Matt describes his experience with immunotherapy as surprisingly manageable and credits the supportive environment at the cancer center for his positive outlook.
Dr. Elizabeth Wulff-medical oncologist, The University of Kansas Cancer Center
Dr. Wulff discusses the advances in immunotherapy and its impact on the outlook for patients with kidney cancer.
She underscores the interdisciplinary approach and ongoing communication at comprehensive cancer centers, which have been instrumental in Matt's recovery.
Dr. Eugene Lee- Urological Oncologist, The University of Kansas Cancer Center
Dr. Lee highlights the importance of positivity, self-advocacy, and finding a care team that fits well.
He emphasizes the importance of surgical technology and systemic therapies in improving outcomes for stage four kidney cancer patients.
Tuesday, April 14th is All Things Brain: Scott Miller went to sleep one night and woke up eight days later after suffering a dangerous brain bleed. Doctors performed two emergency craniotomy surgeries to relieve pressure on his brain and save his life. Now fully recovered, his story shows how fast treatment for brain hemorrhage symptoms can make all the difference.