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Title of the document
If I’d been tested for biomarkers earlier,
I could have skipped harsh treatments that didn’t benefit me,
and started the effective
targeted treatment much sooner.
![Uroosa Khalid](https://testyourbiomarkers.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Uroosa-Khalid5.png)
![Uroosa Khalid](https://testyourbiomarkers.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Uroosa-Khalid1.png)
![Uroosa Khalid](https://testyourbiomarkers.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Uroosa-Khalid6.png)
![Uroosa Khalid](https://testyourbiomarkers.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Uroosa-Khalid2.png)
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Uroosa Khalid
Diagnosis:
Biomarker:
Diagnosis and Early Treatment
Eventually, I was misdiagnosed with duodenal cancer, and I underwent a Whipple procedure to remove tumors. That surgery revealed that I actually had metastatic stomach cancer with aggressive pancreatic involvement. Post surgery, I underwent FOLFOX chemotherapy, a grueling experience that caused me to have seizures and lose consciousness. It was unsustainable, so I spoke to my oncologist about immunotherapy, who said it was a last resort that wouldn’t help me.
Unconvinced, I sought a second opinion at MD Anderson, where my health care team tested me for biomarkers in a simple, noninvasive process involving blood draws and a saliva test. The doctors explained the results showed I was MSI-high, which meant my cancer cells had mutated and disguised themselves, which made the chemo I was on completely ineffective at treating my particular disease.
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My struggles with stomach problems and gastrointestinal issues started when I was in high school...
![Uroosa Khalid](https://testyourbiomarkers.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Uroosa-Khalid18.png)
However, they said I was a good candidate for pembrolizumab (Keytruda), and I was ecstatic to have something different and more targeted to try. My health insurer immediately denied my claim, however, and I was forced to go through a dehumanizing and scary months-long period during which I fought for coverage for the treatment my doctors knew was right for me. I could not afford the medication out of pocket, and I went without any treatment at all for several months. It was only because an advocacy organization called Hope for Stomach Cancer suggested I apply for Merck’s patient-assistance program that I ultimately received Keytruda through the manufacturer.
I was on Keytruda from March 2021 until May 2023. The side effects were minimal and my quality of life was worlds apart from when I was on chemo and could not even pick up a glass of water from my bedside table. I went back to work, and my scans were clear after six weeks. They are still clear today.
The Case for Biomarker Testing
I am truly not sure where I’d be, or if I’d even be alive today, if I hadn’t had biomarker testing and received the right treatment for my cancer.
In hindsight, I wish I had known about stomach cancer biomarkers and undergone testing earlier because the information would have steered me towards a targeted, more effective treatment sooner.
I want all newly-diagnosed stomach cancer patients to know how important it is to prioritize early biomarker testing. Asking questions about PDL-1 scores, MSI status, HER2 and other specific biomarkers should be part of their dialogue with their healthcare team. In addition, engaging with the cancer community and patient-centered organizations can be invaluable.
Five years after my diagnosis, I am working full time as a realtor and enjoying my life. Although scans, bloodwork, and endoscopies remain part of my annual routine as I vigilantly monitor my health, I’ve mostly transitioned from receiving support to trying to provide it. At times, I have survivor’s guilt because so many wonderful people I’ve met on this journey have passed away.
![Uroosa Khalid](https://testyourbiomarkers.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Uroosa-Khalid7.png)
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![Lauren Donithan](https://testyourbiomarkers.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Lauren-Donithan.png)
PDL-1 CLDN 18.2
Lauren Donithan
Lauren was diagnosed with Stage IV stomach cancer in 2023 at age 37.
![Javier Florez](https://testyourbiomarkers.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Javier-Flores.png)
HER2
Javier Flores
Javier received the grim diagnosis of Stage IV stomach cancer in 2017 at age 39.
![Uroosa Khalid](https://testyourbiomarkers.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Uroosa-Khalid-1.webp)
MSI-high
Uroosa Khalid
![Terri Brady](https://testyourbiomarkers.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Terri-Brady.png)
HER2
Terri Brady
![Bruce Shipman](https://testyourbiomarkers.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Bruce-Shipman1.png)
HER2
Bruce Shipman
In 2021, Bruce was in the midst of a cross-country move when he was diagnosed.
tumor
mutational
burden
Suzanne Ottinger