A cancer patient, given months to live, has hit a major milestone after completing his 100th round of immunotherapy treatment.
Charles Anderson, 76, of Holland-on-Sea, who renovates houses for a living, received his fortnightly infusion at Clacton Hospital.
Having had surgery to remove his bladder and prostate in September 2019 – months after being diagnosed with bladder cancer – follow-up tests showed the cancer had spread to his left lung and a lymph node.
Six cycles of chemotherapy started in 2020, reducing his life expectancy to around a year, before he was offered immunotherapy – thanks to a revolutionary new drug, Avelumab, which helps the immune system attack cancer cells.
Mr Anderson, whose occupations have included being a computer programme designer, sailing instructor and community first responder, said: “I am in great shape – far better than anyone should expect.
Charles Anderson
“After six rounds of chemotherapy my left lung packed up and there was a time when I was at my lowest point.
“After initially being told there was no other treatment, I was offered immunotherapy – it was a ‘Hail Mary’ moment as we didn’t know what the outcome would be – I was part of a trial.
“Chemotherapy made me sick, I started to lose my hair, and the fatigue levels were immense. From walking 20-25 miles a week I was struggling to walk 100 metres. It also affected my mental health.
“Immunotherapy doesn’t affect me anywhere near as much.”
Having received immunotherapy at Colchester Hospital for a year, Charles was able to transfer his treatment to the Jubilee Unit at Clacton Hospital, saving him time and contributing to a greener environment. Charles believes he saves about 36 tonnes of carbon per year, alone, by travelling to Clacton instead of Colchester.
Father-of-two Charles, who is married to Jacqui, said: “The staff there have been outstanding – their attitude has been a major contributor to how I feel about my life.
“I had stopped thinking about being a person, buying new clothes or shoes, as I wasn’t expecting to be here for longer than 10 months.
“The team at Clacton have got me to plan six months and, possibly, a year ahead.
“I have a hole in my heart and have had infective endocarditis (infection of the heart’s inner lining or valves) and the NHS has always been there for me.
“It’s one of the greatest institutions ever.”
Charles’ consultant, Dr Muthu Kumar, said: “To complete one-hundred cycles of immunotherapy is remarkable in any circumstances and his scans have shown quite a good response, allowing him to live an active, self-caring life.
Dr Muthu Kumar
“The chemotherapy was quite invasive and could only control the cancer cells for a few months, whereas the immunotherapy has had a sustained benefit.
“He represents a story of endurance and resilience.”
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