Florida Father's Experimental Glioblastoma Treatment at Moffitt Cancer Center

Armando's Glioblastoma Diagnosis

• 🚴 Armando Des, an avid cyclist, experienced persistent headaches that led to an MRI.
• 🧠 The MRI revealed a baseball-sized tumor and severe swelling, diagnosed as Glioblastoma.
• 💔 Doctors initially gave him a prognosis of 5 to 18 months to live, hitting him with the reality of mortality.

Experimental Clinical Trial

• 💡 Armando learned about a groundbreaking clinical trial at Moffitt Cancer Center specifically for Glioblastoma patients.
• 🤝 He decided to participate, stating, "Somebody has to be the first," and embraced the experimental treatment.
• ✝️ During his treatment and MRIs, Armando finds peace and strength through prayer and meditation, carrying a cross for comfort.

The Treatment Process

• 🧠 Glioblastoma is one of the deadliest cancers, and a major challenge is the blood-brain barrier, which prevents most systemic therapeutics from reaching the brain.
• 🔬 This clinical trial aims to temporarily break down the blood-brain barrier using ultrasound in combination with microbubbles to deliver chemotherapy directly to the tumor.
• 🩺 The ultrasound device is implanted above the tumor, activated via a receiver under the scalp, allowing for targeted treatment delivery.

A Milestone Achievement

• ✅ Armando completed his seventh and final treatment for the clinical trial, marking a significant milestone.
• 🎉 Dr. Michael Vogelbomb, Chief of Neurosurgery at Moffitt, expressed that seeing a patient complete treatment and remain functional is a victory.
• 🔔 Armando eagerly anticipated ringing the bell, symbolizing the end of his treatment course.

Positive Prognosis and Family Support

• 📈 Prior to his last treatment, an MRI showed no tumor progression, providing excellent news.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Armando acknowledges that cancer affects the entire family, expressing gratitude for the support of his wife and sons.
• 🙏 He describes his support system as a "prayer army," giving him the peace and strength to navigate his journey one step at a time.