Karen

Karen

HER 2+ Breast Cancer

Karen, a 66-year-old from Northeast Tennessee, has battled HER 2+ breast cancer since September 2007. After many years of traditional treatment including chemotherapy and radiation, she enrolled on a clinical trial with Dr. Erika Hamilton, Director of Breast Cancer Research, SCRI and a medical oncologist for SCRI Oncology Partners in Nashville, Tenn.

During her time under Dr. Hamilton’s care, Karen enrolled on several clinical trials. Most recently, Dr. Hamilton suggested that Karen try an antibody drug conjugate (ADC) which is a targeted therapy that allows an antibody to bind to proteins on cancer cells, making it easier for the drug to enter a cancer cell and destroy it. ADCs are very targeted, allowing oncologists to use powerful therapies but target it directly to the cancer without harming healthy cells.

“Dr. Hamilton said that antibody drug conjugates are typically easier on the body and I happily obliged!” said Karen.

Karen has been on the antibody drug conjugate for nearly two years now, 42 rounds, and her side effects remain minimal. She continues to work full-time, volunteer in her community and keep up with her busy 16-year-old.

“I feel good! I do have a little hair thinning but for the most part I am able to maintain my life as normal. It has not affected my energy level which I am thankful for so that I can be a healthy, present mother with my daughter as we navigate all of the fun opportunities that high school has to offer.”

Now, in part due to patients like Karen who participate in clinical trials, the antibody drug conjugate is FDA-approved and available commercially to all patients facing cancer.