New Zealand myeloma patient joins a CAR-T trial in Shanghai for about $65,000 including airfare
- When
- 2025-05
- City
- Shanghai
- Total cost reported
- about $65,000 (as reported)
- Shared on
- News
- Patient from
- New Zealand
ReportedLast verified
Timeline
2018
Diagnosed with high-risk myeloma; later three stem cell treatments in New Zealand.
2025
Relapses; CAR-T not commercially available at home and Australian cost could exceed A$500,000.
2025-05
Within about 10 days of contact, admitted to Renji Hospital, Shanghai.
2025
Seven weeks in China, five in hospital; dual CAR-T in a clinical trial; reports complete remission.
What went well
- Fast acceptance
- Total about $65,000 including hospital care and airfare (Bloomberg)
- Reports remission and stable monthly blood tests
What was hard
- Had to fundraise
- Treatment was via a clinical trial; he says it is not a cure
"It is not a cure. But if I need to and if there is the opportunity, I would go back to China to do it again."
Individual experience; outcomes vary. This story is a summary linking to its source; follow the link for the original account.
Source
Information only. Not medical advice, diagnosis or a treatment recommendation. Talk to your doctor. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.