Patient Testimonials

April 16, 2007:
"I was treated at the Issels Clinic in 1972-1973 for head and neck (epipharynx) tumor. I was 12 years old and I am still thankful that Dr. Issels saved my life. Back then the University Clinic gave me 2 weeks to live.

I am now 45 years old and never had any more symptoms."

 

 

 

 

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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>> Watch Jim Gibson's testimonial (12.8 MB)

Cancer free after the Issels Treatment since March 2003.

January 2009 Jim leads a very active life.

For more information please visit his website www.survivingsmallcell.com.

Update of December 2007:

CT scan and MRI reveal patient is cancer free.

"It is now over six years since the initial diagnosis of small cell lung cancer in my left lung. In that time, it returned, I fought it off with alternative treatments, and it is more than 5 years since I left the Issels Treatment Center cancer free."
-- Quote from Jim Gibson's website www.survivingsmallcell.com

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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>> Watch Kenneth Scoones's testimonial (6.8 MB)

In May 2008 Mr. Kenneth Scoones was diagnosed as suffering from a reddish-black lesion, suspicious of melanoma, in his left anterior hemi thorax, just above the nipple. His family practitioner in the United Kingdom took a biopsy from the 1.5 cm lesion and one week later the pathology report confirmed the diagnosis melanoma.

On June 18th 2008, he had a CT scan of the thorax and underwent surgery to perform a wide local resection of the melanoma on his left breast. A central lymph node biopsy was performed on June 20th 2008. Two weeks later he was informed that the central lymph node biopsy was positive for melanoma metastasis and that the CT scan showed multiple, uncountable pulmonary nodules consistent with metastases.

His doctors offered him to start chemotherapy with the forewarning that it would have severe side effects and that it might only add one year of life but that they could not assure a positive outcome. Instead of undergoing chemotherapy Kenneth decided to try the comprehensive non-toxic Issels Treatment.

He arrived at the Issels Treatment Center on September 11th 2008 and the complete Issels treatment protocol was started without any delay. During his 4-week stay he maintained a very positive attitude, enjoying the healing environment of the Center.

On October 6th 2008 a thoracic CT scan was performed and the comparison with his previous thoracic CT scan dated June 18th 2008 revealed the remission of all the pulmonary metastases seen in the previous study.

At the time of his discharge on October 9th 2008 Kenneth was in excellent general conditions, with the high energy level of KPS at 100, and eager to continue his complete home treatment protocol.

The CT scan of February 6, 2009 in the UK confirmed the remission of all the lung metastases seen on the CT scan of June 18, 2008 in the UK before Kenneth started the Issels Treatment. He has followed his home care program and had no other treatment since. Kenneth came to the Issels Treatment Center for 5 days in April 2009 for his follow-up visit and everybody was happy to see him in such a great condition.

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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>> Watch Herb Fritz's testimonial (5.9 MB)

Herb Fritz, 58, was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in January 2007. After his diagnosis he immediately started chemotherapy. He completed 3 cycles of chemotherapy with cisplatin, and 5FU in 9 weeks plus 33 rounds of radiotherapy with chemo once a week that ended in May 2007. In 2007 he also had a gastrostomy tube placed.

In October 2007 a PET/CT scan showed that he now had multiple lung metastases and he started chemotherapy again in November 2007. The plan was to do 6 cycles, however, he only was able to complete 5 cycles due to extreme weakness and severe side effects that rendered him incapacitated for 3 weeks. He completed this chemotherapy in March 2008.

The restaging PET/CT scan of January 17, 2008 had shown elevated glucose metabolism within the left piriform sinus, multiple lung metastases and evidence of right rib lesion consistent with bone metastases. His post-chemo PET/CT scan of April 10th 2008 showed his lung metastases less solidified, however, it demonstrated new metastases in the mediastinum.

The patient first arrived at the Issels Treatment Center on June 02, 2008 feeling very weak in a very bad general condition. His first blood examinations indicated severely low levels of hemoglobin and a very low leukocyte count. He received blood transfusions without complications and was treated with Gramal, which is a human recombinant stimulating colony factor. He responded very well to the complete Issels Treatment Protocol.

At the time of his discharge on June 30, 2008 he expressed that he was feeling much better, with dramatic improvement of his general condition. In his own words his “quality of life was fully restored.” He stated that his stay at the Issels Treatment Center had helped him even to recover from the severe side effects of his past chemotherapy and radiation. He went home with a complete home care treatment protocol, which he diligently followed through.

The new PET/CT scan of December 2008 revealed that he is free of all malignant lesions. In January 2009 Mr. Fritz reported to the physicians of the Issels Treatment Center that he is very happy as his oncologist told him he is now in full remission.

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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>> Watch Laura Dunford's testimonial (7.5 MB)

In February 2001, Laura was diagnosed with a 9x11 cm infiltrative carcinoma in the lower external part of the right breast, which was estrogen and progestagen positive and Her2neu negative. It was a grade 3, highly aggressive tumor with a lymph node of 3x1.5cm in the axilla.

The tumor was too large for surgery and no radiation treatment was administered. Laura received chemotherapy, the FEC regimen, which did not work well. Therefore, she was given taxotere. She continued with homeopathy and hormone blocking medication. This eradicated the tumor within 9 months until it started to grow back in 2005. She received more taxotere and tried the Natural Hygiene method of fasting. In June 2006 the bone scan revealed a metastasis to the sternum measuring 3x3 cm and liver lesions were diagnosed.

When she started the Issels Treatment in June 2006, a tumor of 4x3.5 cm was palpated in the right breast. Upon her discharge from the 4-week Issels Treatment including the vaccine program the CT scan did not show the liver lesions any more. After 5 months of the Issels home care program the breast tumor had shrunk to pea size and the bone scan was “virtually normal”. The patient gained 20 lbs and is in very good condition with excellent attitude.

Update of June 9, 2007:
The recent bone scans of June 2007 "shows nothing in the hips, the shoulder or the spine". In spite of the bad prognosis of Laurie's oncologist she is still fit for work.

"I'm very, very thankful for all the help I have received from the Issels team."
- Laurie Dunford

Fall 2007: Laura during her visit to China

Update of January 2008:
"I enjoy life and am very optimistic."

Update of May 2008:
Laurie in Alberta, Canada, two years after initiation of the Issels Treatment:

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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>> Watch Lucia Lizotte's testimonial (4.0 MB)

In June 2003 Lucia was diagnosed as suffering from breast cancer, left side, measuring 2.5 cm. The biopsy revealed a ductal carcinoma in situ, her-2, estrogen and progestagen positive. She had a lumpectomy and mastectomy, but did not opt for chemotherapy and/or radiation. Shortly after surgery she became pregnant with her first child.

In March 2007 Lucia complained about back pain. The PET/CT scans reveal metastases to the spine T12, L1, L5, and S1. The PET scan of March 13, 2008 shows multiple metabolic lesions of the liver (altogether 5), metastases of the left rib, T2, L2, L5, and sacrum. Treatment with the hormone blocker Tamoxifen was initiated. No other conventional treatment.

On May 8th 2007, Lucia starts the intensive 4-week Issels Treatment including the vaccines and continues the follow-up home care program as the only treatment.

On December 28th 2007, PET/CT scans reveal remarkable reduction in the number of osseous and hepatic metastases. The tumor remnants in T12, L1 and L5 are markedly diminished. The previously visualized foci on the left side of the liver have resolved (comparison March 2007) as well as the right lobar foci. Only one lesion remains centrally measuring 2.4 x 1.6 cm. No new metastases.

Four of five liver metastases have resolved. Liver enzymes are within normal range, as well as tumor marker Ca 125 at 13.

February 2008, Lucia is in very good condition leading a happy family life. During her follow-up visit to the Issels Treatment Center on February 29th, she states: "I thank God that my husband and I made the decision to come to Issels."

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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>> Watch Jean Young's testimonial

Mrs. Jean Young, 68 years old, was first diagnosed with Stage II, progesterone and estrogen receptor positive breast cancer in 2001. She had a bilateral radical mastectomy in 2001 and had a course of 6 months of the hormone blocker Tamoxifen. In April 2007 she developed thoracic pain, shortness of breath, fatigue and the X-ray showed pleural effusions in both lungs and atelectases in the right lung. Lung metastases were diagnosed and she underwent drainage and a talc pleurodesis was performed. In spite of this procedure she continued to develop fluid in her lungs that had to be drained every 15 to 20 days. In May 2007 she started Femara for 23 days and stopped it because of severe side effects.

She arrived at the Issels Treatment Center on July 3rd 2007 and underwent the full Issels treatment protocol until July 31st 2007. When she started the Issels Treatment she had difficulty breathing, her oxygen saturation was between 82-90% with the need to use oxygen occasionally. The blood test showed a very high platelet count of 700.000 and she was fatigued. After 2 weeks of treatment she felt already stronger and noticed a remarkable improvement in her overall well being. The CT scan of July 23rd, 2007 shows that the pleural effusion in the left lung disappeared and the pleural effusion in the right lung decreased from about 25 – 30% to 10%. Her oxygen saturation improved to 97%. Her blood values normalized, the platelet count with 379.000 was within the normal range again and she did not need a pleural drainage anymore. At her discharge, her Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS) was estimated to be 100, she had no breathing difficulty anymore, tolerated and enjoyed exercising 20 minutes a day. She left with her at home treatment protocol, which she followed for 5 months. At home she continued to respond very well to the treatment, the chronic pleural effusion of 10% in the right lung did not cause any respiratory problems and since the beginning of the Issels Treatment she did not require a pleural drainage anymore.

The PET/CT scan of February 2008 does not reveal any new metastases and the chronic pleural effusion of 10% in the right lung does not show any metabolic activity, enabling Jean to lead a normal, active life.

January 2009 update: Jean reports to be in very good condition.

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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>> Watch Jacinta's testimonial (3.52 MB)

Jacinta McShane, 57, from the U.K. was diagnosed with Breast Cancer Grade 3 Stage 2 in May 2004. A lumpectomy was performed on the left breast in June 2004. The tumor was both estrogen and progesterone receptor positive, and HER2 positive. She had to undergo further wider excisions as margins were unclear in July 2004 and again in August 2004. Finally a mastectomy of the left breast was performed in September 2004. At this time her doctors recommended chemotherapy and radiation but she refused. In November 2004, treatment with Tamoxifen was started and discontinued in February 2006.

In May 2005 she had chest wall relapse along the mastectomy scar line. The biopsy of this lesion indicated invasive cancer with some residual carcinoma. Radiotherapy treatment was started from September to October 2005.

Sadly, on January 25, 2006 a CT of the Chest, abdomen and brain revealed several pulmonary nodules in the right upper lobe, left lower lobe and right lower lobe, with radiotherapy changes in the left lung and a small left pleural effusion with no significant mediastinal or hilar lymphadenopathy. Fortunately no bone metastases and no cerebral metastases were identified.

In March 2006 she was started on Zoladex and Herceptin.

On February 21, 2007 Jacinta arrived at the Issels Treatment Center. Her liver enzymes were elevated and on March 2, 2007 her tumor marker CA 27-29 was 22.6 U/ml. She responded very well to our immune stimulation and detoxification. Her liver enzymes dropped to normal and the tumor marker CA 27-29 decreased to 18.5 U/ml. She was discharged in very good condition on March 20, 2007 after she completed successfully our full treatment program.

On August 20, 2007 a CT scan of her thorax and abdomen was performed and compared to her CT from February 7, 2007. It showed no significant lymphadenopathy within the thorax. No change in an 8 mm pleural nodule in the lingula. Lungs were clear apart from minor radiation fibrosis peripherally in the left upper lobe, abdominal organs unremarkable and no bone metastases were identified.

In September 2007 she stopped Zoladex but continued with Herceptin. On May 2008 she restarted Zoladex. Her CA 15-3 tumor marker was 18 IU/ML on January 25, 2008 and it reduced to 14 IU/ml on July 31, 2008.

Jacinta visited the Issels Treatment Center two more times on separate occasions to boost her immune system, once from April 14, 2008 to April 19, 2008 and the second time from October 29, to October 31, 2008. She also continues to take Zoladex and Herceptin within the context of the Issels Treatment home care program.

The CT contrast scan of chest and liver on August 4, 2008 showed no axillary or supraclavicular lymph node enlargement, no change in the lingular subpleural nodule. No new nodules are seen. Within the limits of the study, there is no evidence of liver metastases, no retroperitoneal or chest lymph nodes are identified and no destructive bone lesions.

In Feburary 2009 Jacinta reports to be very active and happy.

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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>> Watch Quynh's testimonial

In September 2004, Quynh Trinh was diagnosed with high-grade ductal carcinoma in situ of the right breast with micro calcifications. In February 2006 she noticed a lump in her right breast which ulcerated, along with other skin changes. On March 23, 2006 she underwent a modified radical mastectomy followed by reconstruction surgeries.

The pathology report from the surgery revealed a T4bN2aMX stage, invasive carcinoma with Paget disease of the right nipple as the final diagnoses. There was extra-tumoral lymphatic and vascular invasion with local perineural invasion, Bloom-Richardson Grade 3, finding 7 positive lymphatic nodules of 7 resected, with negative estrogen and progesterone receptors but positive Her2/NEU (HERCEP).

From April 2006 to July 2007 Quynh underwent chemotherapy with Adriamycin (Doxorubicin Hydrochloride) and Cytoxan (Cyclophosphamide), followed by Taxol and Herceptin (trastuzumab). In addition she received radiotherapy from January 2007 to March 2007. In October 2007 she developed evidence of bone metastases in the sternum and lung metastases, therefore Herceptin was re-initiated plus Gemzar. However, Gemzar was suspended and Herceptin was administered from November 2007 to July 2008.

In July 2008 she started to present cough, dyspnea (shortness of breath), and was diagnosed with a spontaneous pneumothorax (collapsed lung) due to the cancer in her pleura. She also had anemia and a small pericardial effusion.

On July 24, 2008 she had a PET/CT scan of her whole body. The comparison with the one done on January 22, 2008 showed increase in size, number and hypermetabolic activity within multiple pulmonary metastases consistent with interval disease progression. There was increased size and hypermetabolic activity within sternal metastases too.

On August 13, 2008 she started the intensive non-toxic Issels Treatment program. When she arrived she was 24 hours oxygen dependent due to her collapsed lung and had great difficulty breathing. Her shortness of breath made it difficult to eat, she also had pain in the sternal area in her chest where the metastases were. She had paresthesias with pain in the upper right extremity with limitations in the range of movement. She presented with five elevated verrucous papules in the skin of the right breast that varied in size from 1 X 1 cm to 2 X 2 cm, and there was a lesion in the right nipple, of approximately 3 X 2 cm in diameter.

During her 4-week stay she received the complete Issels Treatment protocol customized for her, without any standard cancer treatment. She experienced a dramatic improvement of her shortness of breath, which improved also her appetite. Her energy level went up considerably, she was not oxygen dependent anymore, and her pain minimized. The lesions in her right breast also flattened.

On September 10, 2008 Quynh was discharged with a comprehensive follow-up home treatment protocol.

Two weeks after her discharge, her stabilized condition enabled her to undertake a recreational trip to Egypt, which she had planned a while ago and from which she happily returned to her home in the US.

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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>> Watch Patricia's testimonial

In May 2005, Patricia Quintana was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma of the right breast with lymph node involvement. A lumpectomy was performed and the pathology report confirmed the diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma. She refused the recommended bilateral mastectomy and changed her lifestyle.

In the fall of 2006 she started to have extreme pain in her right lower extremity and she also noticed that she developed suppurative lesions in her right breast. A series of tests revealed that the cancer had spread to the bones and in April 2007 metastases to the liver and pelvis were found.

She underwent chemotherapy with Abraxane and Avastin from April 2007 to October 2007 and finished 6 cycles to achieve cytoreduction. A bilateral mastectomy was performed in September 2007. She received radiotherapy from October 2007 to December 2007. In January 2008, follow-up imaging studies revealed increased hepatic metastases. Another cycle of chemotherapy started on February 4th 2008 and finished in July 2008.

Imaging studies from September 2008 showed progression of the metastatic disease in the liver and the bones. The larger metastatic lesion in the liver measured 5 cm and the metastatic bone lesions where predominantly in the cervical spine, sternum, ribs, right femur, pelvis and cranium.

After going through surgery, chemotherapy and radiation Patricia wanted to seek a more holistic integrative approach to treat her cancer and decided to come to the Issels Treatment Center.

She started the Issels Treatment on November 6th, 2008. At her arrival Patricia had generalized osteo-muscular pain more prominently in her right thigh and right knee, she could not extend her right lower extremity and this made walking difficult for her, she also had lower back pain and hip pain.

Patricia underwent the complete Issels Treatment Protocol and during her 4-week stay she experienced dramatic improvement in her overall well being, she got rid of her excruciating pain. She fully recovered mobility in her lower extremity. She can now lift and extend her leg completely, movements that where impossible for her to do for the past two years. She is happy to be able to walk again. Her tumor marker CA27-29 was 118.5 U/ml at her arrival, and at the end of her stay it went down to CA27-29: 111.4 U/ml. She was discharged on December 4th 2008 with a comprehensive follow up home treatment protocol.

End of January 2009, Patricia reports to be in very good condition.

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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>> Watch Carol Gayle's testimonial (4.0 MB)

On August 16th, 2006 Carol Gayle, 64 years old, was diagnosed as suffering from metastatic kidney cancer. The CT scan revealed a large left hypernephroma (kidney cancer) that measured 8.2 x 9 cm, left renal vein thrombosis with pulmonary, mediastinal, pulmonary hilar metastases and a 2 cm enhancing soft tissure mass in the medullary cavity of the distal third of the right femur, and a second, approximately 4 mm lesion in the anterior cortex of the same femur, compatible with a malignant metastasis. A nuclear bone scan on August 29th, 2006 confirmed these findings and a biopsy of the right distal femur on September 14th, 2006 showed a poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma with features consistent with MRCC.

She underwent an operation for an intramedullary rod of the right distal femur, and curettage, argon beam and cementation of the cavitary defect on September 14th, 2006. Following this surgery she was treated with Avastin for 8 weeks and in December 2006 her left kidney was surgically removed. The pathology report of December 12th, 2006 revealed a renal cell carcinoma (14.0 cm in largest dimension), conventional (clear cell) type, Fuhrman nuclear grade 4, with extensive necrosis (75% of the tumor), invasive into perinephric adipose tissue and renal vein, Stage pT3b N0/35 M1 G4.

Carol suspended the radiotherapy offered. Instead she entered an experimental program that she did not tolerate. Subsequently she looked for alternative options and without any further standard treatment she chose immunotherapy, the Issels Treatment.

Carol Gayle underwent the intensive program of comprehensive Immunotherapy at the Issels Treatment Center from April 12th, 2007 until May 5th, 2007 without complications. A superior abdomen CT Scan of April 30th, 2007 revealed that there where multiple nodular lesions on both inferior pulmonary lobules without change from the previous study of March 21st, 2007, a surgically absent left kidney and left adrenal, hepatic hypodensities on right lobule of .4 cm that had not changed from the previous study, and the rest of the superior abdominal images were normal.

The comparison of the chest, abdomen and pelvic CT scans of January 8th, 2008 with the ones of October 11th, 2007, showed that there is an interval decrease in size of a right middle lobe nodule. Additional pulmonary nodules are stable. There is interval improvement of the right hilar and aorticopulmonary window adenopathy, stable low-density left hepatic lobe lesion, indeterminate and surgical changes of prior left nephrectomy are without findings to suggest recurrence.

The findings of her bone scan of January 9th, 2008 were similar to the ones seen on October 5th, 2007 and do not appear suspicious for potential metastatic disease, but are felt to be post surgical and degenerative in origin.

March 17, 2008 on Carol's second visit to the Issels Treatment: "I've been on the Issels Program for a year. Every three months I have my CT scans and bone scans and every time I've gone since a year ago they have been improved. My tumors have decreased in size every time, there's no new cancer showing and I continue to be on the Issels Treatment and it's done very well for me."

As part of her follow-up treatment protocol, Carol’s second visit to the Issels Treatment Center was on March 17th, 2008. She has gained weight, felt much better and was very happy about the drastic improvement of her condition. Carolyn in her own words: "I've been on the Issels Program for a year. Every three months I have my CT scans and bone scans and every time I've gone since a year ago they have been improved. My tumors have decreased in size every time, there's no new cancer showing and I continue to be on the Issels Treatment and it's done very well for me."

In March 2009 Carol reports to be in very good condition.

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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>> Watch Tom Howell's testimonial (20.5 MB)

In 1999 the patient had a colorectal adenocarcinoma surgically removed. Chemotherapy with 5FU and Leukovorin for 6 months and radiation therapy for 6 weeks followed.

In September 2004 a recurrence was diagnosed in the same area and metastases to the lungs which were confirmed by biopsy as well as 2 nodes in the sternum. Another 6 months of chemotherapy from October 2004 until April 2005 followed with the Folfox regimen which included 5FU, Leukovorin, Oxaliplatin, and Avastin with the side effect of nausea, diarrhea, mouth sores, neuropathy and other complications.

In November 2005 a PET scan revealed that the cancer continued to grow and in December 2005 a third round of chemotherapy started for 3 months with the Folfuri regimen which replaced the Oxaliplatin in the previous regimen with Irinotecan.

In March 2006 an ileostomy became necessary. On May 8, 2006 Tom was admitted to the Issels Treatment Center where he received the comprehensive immunotherapy including the vaccine protocol. Upon discharge from the intensive 4 week in-patient treatment the CT scan showed a decrease of the number and sizes of the metastases in the mediastinum and parenchymal tissue of the lungs.

Tom continued the home care program, regained weight and his energy.

November 16, 2006, Washington, USA, the patient in his own words: “I feel great. I have resumed my activities and thank my doctors at the Issels clinic for their excellent care. I also very much appreciated the warm “healing environment” of the whole place, which made us sometimes feel like being on vacation rather than in a hospital. The nearby ocean did its part, too.”

May 21, 2007. One year after the start of the Issels Treatment, the patient in his own words: “According to my recent test, my CEA tumor marker is at 1.9 within the normal range. I still follow the Issels diet and supplement program, and exercise regularly. I have been able to resume my work part time.

January 2008: "I feel excellent."

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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>> Watch Susan Baker's testimonial (4.46 MB)

Susan K. Baker, 60, was first diagnosed with rectal adenocarcinoma classified T3 N1 M0 in June 2001. In July 2001 she underwent a colostomy and intestinal resection. The colostomy was closed in September 2001.

She had chemotherapy with 5-FU from October 2001 to May 2002. In 2005 she developed pulmonary symptoms and a PET/CT was performed on November 8th 2005, which indicated metastatic lesions in the left lower pulmonary lobe close to the left hilum with a maximum SUV of 10.3 mm and in the right upper pulmonary lobe with a maximum SUV of 12.4 mm.

She received chemotherapy with oxaliplatine and capecitabine from December 2005 to January 2006; posterior to this on June 14th 2006 a metastectomy was done and the left apical lower and posterior basal segment of the lung was removed, measuring 90 x 40 x 20 mm with a nodule measuring 10 x 10 x 8 mm that showed on microscopic examination a moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma consistent with bowel origin. On August 8th 2006 a right upper lobectomy was done; the right upper lobe measuring 150 x 105 x 30mm with a tumor arising towards the hilum measuring 16 x 12 x 8mm. The microscopic examination of this section showed an adenocarcinoma with prominent tubular architecture with features entirely in keeping with a metastasis from the large bowel.

Looking for a more holistic integrative approach to cancer she first arrived at the Issels Treatment Center on October 15th 2006. At this time she presented peripheral neuropathy of the inferior extremities due to the chemotherapy that she had received.

During her 4-week stay she received the complete Issels Treatment protocol and was discharged on November 12th 2006 with a comprehensive follow up home treatment protocol.

She continued with her home treatment without any problems. Her second visit to the Issels Treatment Center was from June 18th to June 24th 2007. During this second visit she conveyed she feels in excellent general condition and is asymptomatic with a KPS of 100, ECOG 0. On June 21st 2007 her CEA was 0.6 ng/ml.

We continued with her home follow-up treatment program. Her CEA never increased and her CT scan in December 2007 showed no evidence of recurrence or metastasis.

Her MRI of May 6th 2008 offered reassurance with regard to her skull base showing no metastasis. Her CT scan of August 21st 2008 did not show any evidence of recurrence and her CEA remained within the normal range.

Her second follow up visit to the Issels Treatment Center was from September 29th to October 2nd 2008. She continued to be in very good general condition and asymptomatic. For the past two years she has not received any other treatment but the Issels Treatment, which she trusts. She conveyed her gratitude for the treatment result and the quality of life she regained.

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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>> Watch Carol Leahy's testimonial (6.68 MB)

Carol Leahy, 70, was diagnosed with moderately differentiated mucinous adenocarcinoma of colorectal origin with liver metastases in October 2008. Carol felt a firm mass below her right rib cage, which was elevated, and suffered from nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Her family physician referred her to a gastroenterology specialist who did a chest, abdominal and pelvic CT on October 24 2008. This CT showed a 6 cm mass like area thickening of the ascending colon, highly suspicious for a primary colon carcinoma, at least two solid liver lesions, the dominant one 19 x 11 cm in size involving most of the right lobe and the medial segment of the left lobe, and a second 4.1 x 4.3 cm solid lesion also in the medial segment of the left lobe, and multiple appearing cystic foci, the largest one measured about 5.9 x 4.1 cm. A CT guided needle biopsy of the larger right lobe hepatic mass was performed on that same day, and the pathology report indicated a metastatic moderately differentiated mucin producing adenocarcinoma consistent with primary colorectal origin.

Her tumor marker, CEA, was 1070.0 ng/ml on October 25th 2008; the normal value for this marker is from 0 to 3 ng/ml.

She started chemotherapy on November 6, 2008, receiving 5FU, leucovorin, eloxatin, and avastin. Her last cycle of chemotherapy was on December 18, 2008, completing only 4 cycles because during her chemotherapy she presented with severe side effects, including extreme weakness, intestinal constipation, and peripheral neuropathy.

Carol arrived at the Issels Treatment Center on December 24, 2008 in a very weak condition, with an energy level that she graded at a 4 of 10 being the highest. She had severe neuropathy, numbness, in hands and feet, pain in her right shoulder and a very distended and hard stomach and abdomen.

The complete Issels Treatment protocol was administered without any complications and she soon felt her energy increasing. The swelling of her abdomen decreased, the tumors in her liver felt softer and she maintained a good positive attitude during her whole stay. Her appetite was good, she had no nausea anymore and enjoyed the diet and her activities.

An abdominal CT on January 10, 2009, revealed that the large liver tumor of 19 x 11 cm had decreased to 18.3 x 9.4 cm, but still involved 70 to 80% of the liver parenchyma. It also showed some nodular images of 1.3 x 5.5 cm in size, an irregular and diffuse thickening in the cecal region, the rest of the structures and organs of the superior abdomen were within normal limits.

The test on January 15, 2009 showed that during the first 3 weeks of the Issels Treatment her CEA dropped from 212.10 ng/ml to 167.8 ng/ml.

At the time of her discharge on January 21, 2009 she expressed her gratitude for her substantial improvement, her regained energy with a Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS) of 90 (100 being normal). She left the Issels Treatment Center optimistic about her prognosis because of her excellent response to our treatment. She was eager to put into practice the healthy lifestyle changes and to complete her comprehensive home care Issels Treatment protocol. On February 9, 2009 she reported how well she is feeling, doing her household and cooking, activities she was not able to do before the Issels Treatment. Her family and friends were stunned to see her return home in such greatly improved condition.

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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>> Bill Darlington's testimonial (6.9 MB)

Prostate cancer with multiple bone metastases in the skull, hips, lower spine responds to Issels Treatment. Dramatic decrease of PSA within 3 weeks. The patient feels stronger and can walk again. His wife was elated: “Judging from our friend’s response to the Issels Treatment, we hoped for an improvement, but we did not dare to hope for such a huge success in this short time.”

W.D. was diagnosed as suffering from prostate cancer in March 2004 when his PSA was already 1,565. In view of the advanced stage, his doctors did not recommend surgery, radiation or chemotherapy, but only hormone treatment. The patient took recourse to natural treatments, but could not stop the progression of the cancer. In the first 3 weeks of the Issels Treatment, including the extracorporeal photopheresis with the dendritic cell vaccine, his PSA dropped from 9,500 to 4,100 and his general condition improved drastically. He went home after a 4-week intensive in-patient treatment and will continue with the comprehensive program including the dendritic cell and autologous Issels vaccines.

March 2006. William Darlington, Ontario, Canada:
"When I was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer in March 2004, the PSA marker was already 1,565. In December 2005 I arrived at the Issels Treatment Center in a wheel chair because of the many bone metastases in my spine and hip. The PSA had climbed to 9,500. Within 3 weeks of intensive in-patient treatment it decreased to 4,100 and after 2 months to 366. Now 3 months into the Issels Treatment including the vaccines, my PSA is down to 15.2. I have put on 16 pounds, feel strong again and can walk without pain. I have resumed many of my activities and regained my life – thanks to my Issels doctors. We so appreciate their thorough loving care and terrific follow-up upon our return home."

November 2006. William Darlington:
"My bone scans of May 11 and Nov 14th, 2006 were completely clear and all bone metastases were gone. I have gained 25 pounds and feel strong again without any pain."

December 5, 2006. William Darlington:
"Exactly one year after my initial treatment I came back to the Issels Center for my second complimentary check-up. This time not in a wheel chair, not in need of a companion but in great shape. It was a wonderful reunion with my Issels doctors and I had a lot of fun seeing how happy everybody was to see me in such a good condition."

April 10, 2007. William Darlington:
I feel very good. My energy has further increased. I have been walking more than a mile everyday all winter. I am back to my normal weight of 160 lbs., and my family and friends have noticed that I don't look sick anymore. I'm preparing now for a long 12,000-mile road trip to Manitoba in our motor home.

January 2009: "I feel great!"

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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>> Gerald Aptaker's testimonial (2.4 MB)

Mr. Gerald Aptaker was diagnosed as suffering from prostate cancer in 1996. A Doppler pelvic ultrasound and biopsy confirmed the diagnosis. The PSA level was 16 ng/ml with a combined Gleason score of 7. His doctors recommended surgery, however, the patient decided to seek alternative medical treatment in New York. From 1996 to July 2007 his PSA level kept rising. In August 2007 he started feeling weak, dizziness, and his urinary symptoms and the pain in his lower extremities returned.

In February 2008 the pain in his lower extremities intensified making it difficult to walk, and he started having pain in his cervical region.

Laboratory results from April 29th 2008 revealed a PSA level of 3101 ng/ml. An abdominal and pelvic CT scan on May 8th 2008 showed a markedly enlarged prostate gland with possible tumor component posteriorly on the left, displacing the rectum, bone lesions suspicious of metastatic disease. The next day a total body bone scan revealed multiple areas of abnormal intense tracer uptake in bilateral ribs, thoracic spine, sacrum, pelvis and left femur consistent with diffuse osteoblastic skeletal metastases. After these results Gerald decided to come to the Issels Treatment Center for the comprehensive immunotherapy.

Gerald started the Issels Treatment on May 15th, 2008. At this time he complained of bone pain in his left iliac region that irradiated to his abdomen, and pain in the region of his right iliac bone that extended to his right lower extremity and that exacerbated during night and during walking. He had pain in both shoulders that limited his full arc of movements in his upper extremities, and neck, he also had costal right pain. He had no appetite and felt extremely weak. His PSA level on May 16th 2008 was 3524.

Gerald underwent the comprehensive Issels immunotherapy without any complication and the laboratory study on June 4th showed that the PSA level dropped to 639.9.

During his stay he manifested improvement in his overall wellbeing. His pain had almost subsided , his appetite improved greatly and his energy level went up. He was discharged on June 12th 2008 with a comprehensive follow up home treatment protocol.

On July 1st 2008, 6 weeks after the start of the Issels Treatment, laboratory studies at home showed a PSA level of 17.27 and the patient reports a substantial improvement in his quality of life, with practically no bone pain, no limitations in his range of motion and being in great spirits, eager to continue his complete home treatment protocol.

Gerald's test on August 7th, 2008 showed that his PSA further dropped to 2.00.

On January 21, 2009 the PSA was 1.07 and Gerald is very happy.

On April 4, 2009 Gerald reports that his PSA dropped to 0.56 and he feels excellent.

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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>> Godine Weiss's testimonial (11.7 MB)

In October 2005, Godine Weiss was diagnosed as suffering from non-small cell Adenocarcinoma of the right lung in the apical zone measuring 3.1 x 1.7 cm, a left axillary lymph node measuring 1.8 x 1.2 cm, and a right hilar lymph node measuring 1.0 cm. The CEA tumor marker ranged up to 40, and she was anemic. Surgery was not possible and the patient did not opt for chemotherapy or radiation.

Godine started the intensive 4-week Issels Treatment including the vaccines on December 6th, 2005 and continued the follow-up home program for 6 months. The CT scan of June 28th, 2006 revealed a slight decrease of the left axillary lymph node from 1.8 x 1.2 cm to 1.5 x 1.1 cm. The PET / CT scan of June 4th, 2007 showed a further decrease of the left axillary lymph node to 1.4 x 0.9 cm and revealed that the tumor in the right lung has no metabolic activity any more and is consistent with scar tissue. The hemoglobin with 13.8 gr is in the normal range, as well as the CEA tumor marker with 2.6. Godine has no pelvic or abdominal metastases.

According to the report of the scan of December 3rd, 2007 “there has been no interval change since the previous examination of June 4th, 2007.”

Godine comes for the regular complimentary follow-up visits to the Issels Treatment Center and continues to take the natural medications and supplements.

In March 2008, Godine is in good condition and happy to report that she "graduated" and does not have to present for the 3-month checkups to her oncologist anymore. He said to her at her last visit: “You are a success, but not even my success”. Her friends call her a miracle baby.

January 2009 update: Godine is in good condition and great spirits.

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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>> Carolyn Murphy's testimonial (5.6 MB)

In June 2007, Carolyn Murphy, 50 years old, was diagnosed as suffering from Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer, Adenocarcinoma. The first CT scan of the Thorax revealed a mass in the upper right lobe, nodes of the subclavicular and tracheal area and multiple mediastinal adenopathies. Patient did not opt for chemotherapy or radiation.

On August 30th, 2007, Carolyn came from England to undergo the 4-week comprehensive immunological Issels Treatment program.

The CT scan of the thorax on September 24th, 2007 showed anterior mediastinal adenopathy of 1.90 x 1.41 cm, para-tracheal adenopathy of 1.74 x 2.64, and peri-bronchial adenopathy right of 2.24 x 1.60 cm.

The CT scan with contrast performed on June 11th, 2008 by the same institution as in December 2007, showed further improvement. The right hilar node has decreased from 1.8 x 2,3 cm to 1.6 x 1.7 cm and the primary lung tumor in the right upper lobe has been diminished to a “small residual scar”.

In July 2008 Carolyn is very active and happy.

In January 2009, Carolyn came for a follow-up visit to the Issels Treatment Center and everybody was happy to see her again in very good condition and high spirits.

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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This very pleasant 71-year-old retired educator was admitted for comprehensive immunotherapy after an 11-year history of breast carcinoma and a history of uterine cancer. On discovery in 1993 of a 6-cm mass in her left breast, she accepted treatment with a modified radical mastectomy with lymph-node dissection (6 of 21 were positive for malignancy). Because of the lymphatic involvement and the size of the primary lesion, she was staged as IIIA (T3 N1 M0). Surgery was followed by chemotherapy with Cytoxan, methotrexate, and 5FU for many months.

A 7-year symptom-free period was ended in February of 2003 with the development of left-sided lymphedema, weight loss, and a persistent dry cough. A September 2003 PET scan of the lungs revealed multiple hypermetabolic foci within the neck, chest and skeleton. On the left side, the scalene and supraclavicular lymph nodes were involved, and on the right side the hilar nodal groups were active. Multiple skeletal lesions were observed in the right femur and ileum, the left acetabulum, a left rib/chest wall, and the spine at L4. The spinal lesion was again imaged by a CT scan of October 2003, and a whole-body bone scan at the same time clearly demonstrated a lesion at L3-4, as well as lesions of the left clavicle, and a left lateral rib. A routine PA and lateral chest x-ray revealed a 1.5-cm left mid lung mass which had been first identified in September 2003. On guided biopsy, she suffered a minor pneumothorax, but recovered without further incident.

By January 2004, just before her admission to the Issels Treatment Center, C.G.’s most recent CT scans now revealed two lung tumors on the left, a 1.4-cm lingular nodule, and a new 1-cm lower left lobe nodule. A bone scan, also of January 2004, suggested progressive and newly extensive bony involvement with metastatic disease in the anterior calvarium, the left sternoclavicular region, several bilateral ribs, the sternum, the spine throughout its cervical, thoracic, and lumbar vertebrae, as well as multiple lesions in the pelvis, and at least two lesions in the right proximal femur.

Her condition on admission January 27, 2004, was good, although the recent rapid spread of her disease was a pressing concern. She was initiated successfully with 28 days of hospitalization for oral and IV nutritional therapy, detoxification, multiple injections of Coley’s toxins, and 4 PUVA-photopheresis sessions with manufacture of a take-home supply of frozen, live dendritic cells for period injections. Her ongoing treatment included consolidation with the Issels autologous vaccine. She was discharged in excellent condition.

By the end of March 2004, after only two months of treatment, a CT of the chest revealed that the two previously described pulmonary nodules had decreased in size so much that the left lower lobe nodule was barely visible. A March 2004 pelvic CT noted both the lumbar spine metastasis and the irregular demineralization and sclerosis within the bony pelvis. A late-May bone scan showed a decrease in intensity of some of the central lesions raising the possibility of interval improvement, and by mid-July 2004 a pelvic CT no longer demonstrated demineralization or sclerosis, although a chest CT could still delineate the lingular mass in the left lung, and a new set of scans in November 2004 showed no real change.

Over the December 2004 ­ January 2005 holidays, she was given a break from vaccinations, and vacationed with her family for five weeks. On her return to commence treatment once again, she had another round of CT scans (March 2005) and was rewarded with the finding her lungs are entirely tumor-free with only slight scarring. Her condition is robust; she has no cough, fever, sweats, or fatigue, and has resumed treatment with the intent to finish the job. October 2005, her spirits are high, and her energy excellent.

May 25, 2007 follow-up: A PET scan compared to the one dated 11.28.2006 reveals the following:
1. Stable uptake in the left clavicle.
2. Stable hilar uptake, probably benign.
3. Widespread mottled appearance of the bones, but No FDG avidity, suggesting healed metastatic bone disease.

Catherine is in excellent condition and wrote a letter to the Issels Treatment Center on December 2007: "...I am so grateful for the Issels Treatment."

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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The 54 year old patient was diagnosed as suffering from B Cell Lymphoma Non-Hodgkin Folicular Low Grade in 2001. She chose no conventional treatment, but a strict diet. In 2005 she went through a period of high stress and began to experience symptoms such as intense pain in the left leg. In December 2005 CT and PET scans show metastatic disease in the left side of the sacrum. Her tumor sizes around the sacrum area measured 5.54cm x 3.38cm x 4.8cm, with a volume of 44.94 cubic cm. She was also diagnosed with multiple nodules on the neck and suspicious lesions in L4 and T10 in the pelvic area. Again, she didn't undergo chemotherapy or other standard cancer treatment, but chose the Issels Treatment instead. To quote, in her own words, "My famous oncologist urged me not to fly from Australia to the Issels Treatment Center as I would die on the way."

When she arrived at the Issels Treatment Center she complained of intense pain on the left leg and had difficulty walking. After the first weeks of treatment, the pain subsided. In July 2006, after 7 months of treatment, the CT Scan shows reduction of the tumor lesions in the left side of the sacrum to 5.7cm x 3.75cm x 4.5cm, and the volume of the tumor decreased to from 44.43 cubic cm to 42.77 cubic cm.

In March 2007 her tumor marker CEA of 0.2 to 0.5 ng/ml is within normal range. She is pain-free, in excellent condition, and reports to feel better than she has felt in many years.

June 23, 2007 update:
Jenny reports that her oncologist in Sydney examined her thoroughly: "I am very happy for you that you are doing so well under the Issels Treatment."

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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D.R., 74, started the Issels Treatment with a three-month-old diagnosis of breast cancer with metastatic disease on the liver, bones and peritoneum. She came to the clinic in a wheelchair, with extensive edema in the lower extremities, and her tumor marker Ca 27-29 was very high at 564. After a month of treatment she was able to walk on her own, her edema in the lower extremities disappeared and her tumor marker decreased to 313.

A comparison in CT Scans before and after 1 month of Issels Treatment showed a marked decrease of cancer activity in the liver and bones.

After eight months into the Issels Treatment she is in very good condition and her tumor marker Ca 27-29 is down to 22.0.

April 4, 2007 follow-up: reports to be in a very good condition. Her tumor marker is down to 17.

April 21, 2007 update: The husband said in an email to one of the other Issels patients who has been in remission for 4 years now: "We are still in amazement."

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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In his own words to Mrs. Issels on his day of discharge from the Issels Treatment Center: "The treatment result, the care by your doctors and nurses, the hospital atmosphere, simply everything surpassed my expectations." The 68 year old patient was diagnosed as suffering from prostate cancer in 1995. He underwent surgery in 1996 and received hormonal treatment with Lupron. In 2003 bone metastases were diagnosed and treated with radiation. He became hormone refractory. In July 2005 he was admitted to the Issels Treatment Center with extensive very painful skeletal metastases which prevented him from walking. Upon admission his PSA count was 1,565 and during the 4-week intensive Issels Treatment including the vaccines it dropped to 94 end of July 2005. He presented in November 2005 for his first follow-up visit in much improved condition and was able to walk again.

>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.

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This 25 years old. woman developed a very fast growing tumor in her abdomen during the pregnancy with her first child. The tumor of a diameter of 11 x 8 cm was removed after the birth of her child in June 2004 and diagnosed as a poorly differentiated Synovial Sarcoma.

In November 2004 several nodules were found in her lungs and the CT scan of February 2005 showed that they were increasing in size. In March 2005 a tumor with a diameter of 6 x 7 cm was diagnosed at the same site as the first tumor.

In April 2005, the patient was admitted to the Issels Treatment Center with inoperable abdominal tumor masses that pressed against the pancreas, spleen, vena cava, diaphragma.and mediastinum. At that point