“Medical science has proven time and again that when the resources are provided, great progress in the treatment, cure, and prevention of disease can occur.” – Michael J. Fox
So in an effort to learn more about all of this, when I get the chance I ask a few questions of our doctor while we are seeing him. Today I learned some more things I didn’t quite have right or understand fully.
It is indeed being offered all over the country and at many academic facilities. MD Anderson for instance is also participating. He didn’t have a list of all the places. I’ll keep trying to track that down. However, I did find the Abecma.com website. There you can learn much about it and it has a treatment facility locator. You put in your zip code and it will tell you the closest place. So I’ll leave it up to you to do a little scavenger hunt.
I also learned that Dave got in early because there were no limits yet placed and we were there for a checkup and so Dr. VanRhee simply applied to get him and he was approved. Then, Bristol Meyers put significant limits on “slots” for the T Cell collections, and all of a sudden they have become incredibly precious. Now the doctors, whose patients will have first priority, are having the difficult task of picking who will be next. Our doctor said to me “how do you choose?” I don’t envy him. But I know he will be fair and thoughtful as he makes each selection. The demand is outstripping the supply. Next month our doctor is only allowed one slot. One patient. One collection. So we talked about when the materials supply chain opens up AND the lab gets smoother in the process, it should begin to open up more. He completely agreed with me.
Anyway, I’ll keep trying to get more data and share it with all of you as soon as I do. I may try to call them and ask for a list of facilities that are currently operational and if they have any in the lineup to be added.
My best advice to all is to talk to your doctor. See if they are aware of it and know any of the doctors in the facilities near you. It’s time to make yourself known directly and indirectly so that when it opens up, you’ll be someone who has already been asking to participate.
And definitely check out the website (abecma.com) it has some useful information.
