A New Era of Treatment: Gene Therapy

My name is Denise Delatorre, and while my journey with cancer began like many others—with fear, countless appointments, and the exhaustion of traditional treatments—it took a turn that offered me not just hope, but a real future. I was honored to be the very first patient in Los Angeles to receive CAR T-cell therapy in a clinical trial (Yescarta), a revolutionary first-of-its-kind cellular therapy that felt like science fiction rather than reality.

When Standard Options Run Out

My battle against an aggressive form of blood cancer lasted months, but those months felt like an eternity. Traditional chemotherapy had failed, despite multiple attempts and months of treatment, including two separate hospitalizations where I underwent 96 hours of straight, non-stop infusions.

The failure of every conventional treatment meant the cancer prevailed, and I was sent home with no hope of survival. The reality was stark: my time was running out, and I only had months to live. This urgency spurred me into action.

Driven to find an alternative, I started doing my own research and found a key article in the LA Times about a company called Kite Pharma and a promising cellular therapy. I didn't wait; I immediately called to inquire about the clinical trial for CAR T-cell therapy—an entirely new approach that offered one last hope.

I was ultimately able to take part in this revolutionary, first-of-its-kind clinical trial. The profound concept involved separating my own T-cells (the body's natural fighters) from my blood, genetically re-engineering them in a lab to create supercharged, cancer-attacking T-cells, and then infusing them back into my body. This literally harnessed the power of my own immune system to win the war against the disease.

The Day That Everything Changed

First, they collected my T-cells—a procedure similar to donating plasma. Then came the waiting period while my cells were sent off to be transformed and grown in a lab by the millions.

Finally, the big day arrived for the infusion. It was a moment charged with emotion. I wasn't receiving drugs; I was receiving my own, super-charged T cells. It wasn't a quick fix, and the recovery required intense monitoring and care, but every minute felt worthwhile because I knew I was part of something historic. 

A New Life A New Mission 

Today, I am thriving. To be able to say I've beaten back the cancer that had overshadowed my life for so long is a miracle.  That’s why I created California Cancer Connection. My journey showed me how critical it is to connect patients with information about new and available therapies, especially when they feel like they’ve hit a dead end and lost all hope. Whether you're considering CAR T Therapy, looking for a clinical trial, or just seeking peer support, this website is built on the belief that knowledge is power and connection is healing.

My re-engineered CAR T-cells gave me a fighting chance; I hope sharing my story empowers you to seek and find your own breakthrough. Thank you for letting me share this deeply personal journey.

Welcome to the California Cancer Connection!