Chris Ollis, a 25-year-old deputy sheriff, received a diagnosis of a rare cancer. After an X-ray revealed spots on his lungs, subsequent biopsies were inconclusive until a wedge resection identified a rare tumor type called myopericytoma. With tumors throughout his lungs, Ollis was given a poor prognosis and started on chemotherapy.
Comprehensive Genomic Profiling Reveals NTRK Fusion
Following the start of chemotherapy, Ollis underwent comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP), which identified a rare NTRK3-EVT6 gene fusion. This discovery opened the door to a targeted therapy clinical trial focused on NTRK inhibitors.
Targeted Therapy with Larotrectinib
Ollis enrolled in the clinical trial and began treatment with larotrectinib, an FDA-approved targeted therapy for NTRK fusion-positive cancers. The treatment proved successful, allowing him to resume an active lifestyle. "I do everything I want to do," Ollis says, nine years after his diagnosis.
A Second Chance at Life
Ollis not only resumed SWAT training and was named Officer of the Year but also started a family, having four children since beginning treatment. He credits genomic testing and clinical trials for saving his life. "Genomic testing saved my life. I’m still here because of it. And now I have a family!"
Advocating for Genomic Testing and Clinical Trials
Now a patient advocate, Ollis shares his experiences and encourages others facing cancer to consider genomic testing. He is active with NTRKers, a patient organization supporting individuals with NTRK fusion-driven cancers. Ollis emphasizes the importance of clinical research and the potential for trials to offer hope and improved outcomes.
