Kim

Kim

Stage 4 Serous Carcinoma Ovarian Cancer

When Kim was diagnosed with stage 4 serous carcinoma ovarian cancer in August 2022, her journey began at St. Mary’s Hospital, marked by the unwavering support of her oncologist, Dr. Krista Isaac. After initial treatments, Kim faced cancer progression, prompting her oncologist to explore clinical trials.

“In any patient with advanced, recurrent cancer I consider if there is a clinical trial option available,” Dr. Isaac said. “This allows a patient to potentially receive a more promising treatment than what I have available as standard of care.”

In January 2024, Kim entered a clinical trial – a pill she took five days on, two days off. Kim trusted her team and stayed on the trial for eight months, experiencing her longest period without progression. When the cancer advanced again, she was offered another clinical trial- an infusion given every three weeks. Her first scan was encouraging, with significant reductions in tumor markers and lesion sizes. And after her fourth infusion, a scan brought more good news: all lesions had decreased in size, some significantly, and no new cancer had appeared.

While the process of joining a trial can be overwhelming with scans, EKGs, bloodwork, and paperwork—Kim credits Lindsay, her clinical research nurse, for making it manageable. “She sets up everything, checks in constantly, and if any billing confusion arises, she handles it,” said Kim.

“Communication is key,” Dr. Isaac added. “My research coordinator contacts our trial patients on a regular basis, and patients have a separate number to call with any questions or issues.” 

The support Kim has received from the entire SCRI at Alliance Cancer Specialists team has made a lasting impression. “Everyone from the front desk, to the lab, to the infusion room treats you with kindness. They answer your questions and help lift some of the weight you carry as a cancer patient. When cancer already brings so much stress, that kind of support makes a big difference,” Kim shared.

“I would strongly encourage patients to consider a clinical trial if their physician feels it is a good fit. We’ve developed a robust clinical trial program at Alliance through our relationship with the Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI),” said Dr. Isaac.

Kim's journey highlights the impact of clinical research and the compassionate care at Alliance. Her advice to others considering a trial? “Get informed. Ask every question. Talk with your care team and your loved ones. For me, deciding to do the second trial first meant I still had chemo as a backup. It gave me options, and that matters when you’re living with cancer,” said Kim.

Today, Kim’s gratitude runs deep—for her care team, for the opportunities clinical research has brought, and for the community she’s found through advocacy. She and her family have participated in the Together in Teal walk/run for three years, raising more than $10,000 for the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition.

“We do it not just for me,” Kim said, “but for everyone facing this diagnosis. I’m incredibly thankful to be part of something that could help others down the line too.”

Learn more about Alliance Cancer Specialists