Kansas City, Kan- Austin Hill, a young father diagnosed with stage four stomach cancer seven years ago, defied a 7% survival rate and now has “no evidence of disease”.
His treatment included immunotherapy due to a rare genetic mutation, which reprogrammed his immune system to attack cancer cells.
Austin's story highlights the advancements in cancer treatment, the importance of early detection, and the role of multidisciplinary care.
He has since founded Mission 212 Foundation | Helping Fathers & Their Families Fight Cancer, a foundation supporting fathers with cancer and their families, emphasizing the significance of control and resilience in overcoming cancer.
Austin Hill, patient
- Austin Hill underwent a highly aggressive surgery, including the removal of his stomach and the lining of his abdomen, followed by a heated chemo drug.
- He describes the physical challenges of recovery, including the use of a jejunostomy tube (J-tube) for nutrition and the difficulty of daily activities.
- Austin shares his experience with immunotherapy, including the numerous infusions of the drug Keytruda.
- He shares his desire to be remembered as a good dad and husband, rather than just a cancer survivor.
Dr. Weijing Sun, Division Director of Medical Oncology, University of Kansas Cancer Center
- Dr. Weijing Sun explains the importance of identifying genetic mutations to guide treatment and the potential for immunotherapy to replace chemotherapy.
- The discussion includes the challenges of overactive T cells and the need for careful monitoring during immunotherapy treatment.
- Dr. Sun explains the rarity of Austin's genetic mutation and the effectiveness of immunotherapy in his case.
Kayti Vernier, Clinical Nurse Coordinator, University of Kansas Cancer Center
- Kayti Vernier and Dr. Weijing Sun discuss the advancements in immunotherapy and its impact on cancer treatment.
- She discusses how Austin’s case gives hope to medical staff and patients of the progress being made in the fight against cancer.
