Clinical trial?

[strawberryjam]

Hello everyone

We reeling with the bad news that my son has a third local recurrence of melanoma . He has had Taf/mek, radiation and Nivo and still

has a recurrence. The docs are suggesting a clinical Trial. He needs something to boost his response to the immunotherapy , possibly a

drug injected into the tumor, a vaccine , something to turn a cold tumor hot? I am lost. I spent all day looking at trials and am

more confused than ever. I need an advisor to help me evaluate the trials

so that we can figure out which one to apply for. I have used services ( through AIM and Belong ) give me lists of possibly appropriate trails but I am having a hard time evaluating the trials

and knowing which ones would be best in his situation. If anyone knows of a resource ( even if there is a fee for that service) or has a strategy that works, please, please please

share. Many thanks and good wishes to all of you.

[Humor-33]

We took my husband to Sloan-Kettering in NYC to see Dr. Alexander Shoushtari, an oncologist who deals only with Melanoma. . They have one wing of the hospital specializing in treatment, diagnosis, clinical trials and research. My husband's metastasis of the brain is stage 4. Perhaps they would be able to offer you another avenue to take with your son.

It is never easy being in this situation , but my heart goes out to you more because caring for a sick child is so much more difficult than a spouse. The best of everything to all of you as you travel on this journey.

[strawberryjam in reply to Humor-33]

Thank you so

much for your response. I have heard good things about sloan Kettering and will contact them. Yes this is a difficult journey for all of us. I appreciate your kind words and wish you the best.

[Bigsister3]

I remember doing clinical trial research for my sister looking at the NIH website but it was overwhelming. I agree with humor finding a hospital that has a doctor that specializes can help navigate the clinical trial waters if your current doctor hasn’t recommended a specific trial. MD Anderson also specializes in melanoma and I am sure there are more. My sister participated in a trial at northwestern in Chicago and the university of Chicago. Sending prayers to you and your family.

[strawberryjam in reply to Bigsister3]

Thank you. I am in the process of getting a third opinion from MD Anderson . They have the highest number of melanoma trials at this time .