Melanoma tumors in a Phoenix woman began shrinking almost immediately after she underwent a new cancer therapy known as Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes (TIL) treatment. This marks the first commercial use of TIL in Arizona following its FDA approval in February. Dr. Moser, involved in the treatment, noted that Tena tolerated the treatment well, with her tumors starting to shrink within two days post-infusion. This rapid response is consistent with the durable effects associated with TIL therapy, as observed in clinical trials that led to its approval.
Tena, a mother of four, had been waiting for this therapy for nearly three years after discovering it in a book about futuristic medical cures. Her proactive approach to learning about her disease and potential treatments paid off when TIL therapy became available. Despite initial plans to travel to Africa, which she was advised against due to her health, Tena is now focusing on writing a book about her cancer journey and has been invited to share her experience at a medical conference in Boston.
Expressing a strong desire to live and help others, Tena sees her future in assisting others through her story of combating cancer with exercise, nutrition, and a positive mindset. While she still dreams of seeing gorillas in Africa, her immediate plans include a trip to Paris, fueled by her 'burning desire to stay alive.'
