Kansas City, KS – Colin Sample survived a rare blood disorder, only to face another devastating diagnosis: leukemia. When chemotherapy failed to control the cancer, doctors at The University of Kansas Cancer Center turned to CAR T-cell therapy, allowing him to undergo a second bone marrow transplant. Now in remission, the young father is enjoying life with his family and pursuing a career in physical therapy.
Colin Sample, Patient and Cancer Survivor
Collin was serving in the U.S. Navy in San Diego when unexplained bruising and tiny red spots on his skin led to a diagnosis of aplastic anemia.
He was just two weeks from graduating from the police academy when he learned he had developed B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) associated with a genetic abnormality carried by his original bone marrow donor.
He underwent chemotherapy and CAR T-cell therapy before receiving a second bone marrow transplant, which brought him into remission.
He shares the emotional toll of facing two serious diagnoses and how his wife and young daughter motivated him to keep fighting.
He is now pursuing a career in physical therapy, hoping to use his experience to help others.
Dr. Joseph McGuirk, Hematologist, Medical Oncologist, Director of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapeutics, The University of Kansas Cancer Center
Dr. McGuirk dxplains aplastic anemia, a rare disorder in which the bone marrow fails to produce enough blood cells, and why Colin needed a bone marrow transplant.
He discusses the unusual circumstances surrounding Colin's leukemia diagnosis following his first transplant, including the genetic abnormality associated with his donor.
He describes how CAR T-cell therapy genetically modifies a patient's immune cells to recognize and attack cancer.
He explains how CAR T-cell therapy reduced Colin's leukemia enough to proceed with a second transplant, despite sensitive testing still detecting residual disease.
He discusses advances in cellular therapy and what emerging treatments could mean for patients with difficult-to-treat cancers.
Destin Brooks, Transplant Nurse Coordinator, The University of Kansas Cancer Center
Destin explains the role of a transplant nurse coordinator in guiding patients through the bone marrow transplant process.
He discusses how transplant teams identify and evaluate potential bone marrow donors.
He explains the additional coordination involved when a patient requires a second transplant following a new cancer diagnosis.
He describes the ongoing monitoring, testing and follow-up care required after a bone marrow transplant.
He shares how patients and families are supported throughout treatment and recovery.
He discusses how people can join the bone marrow donor registry and potentially help save a life.