Terminally-ill Man Determined to Outlive Prognosis
Matthew Collins, a 35-year-old man from Aberdare, Wales, received devastating news in October 2023 when he was diagnosed with an incurable and aggressive brain tumour. Doctors informed him that he may only have 12 to 18 months left to live. However, Matthew refused to accept this grim prognosis and embarked on a mission to find a way to extend his time on earth.
With the limited treatment options available to him, Matthew discovered a vaccine known as DC-VaxL that showed promising results in doubling survival rates in some patients and prolonging lives by years instead of months. Despite the vaccine not being available on the NHS, Matthew decided to raise funds for it, as each course costs £75,000. Over the past year, he has been overwhelmed by the support he has received, raising nearly £200,000 towards his treatment.
Matthew’s journey began in June the previous year when he experienced a seizure, leading to the discovery of the tumour. Following its removal in October, he was diagnosed with glioblastoma, the most aggressive form of brain cancer. Despite undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy, doctors warned him that the tumour was likely to return.
Undeterred, Matthew underwent three rounds of the vaccine treatment, with the last piece of his tumour preserved for genome sequencing in the hope of exploring further treatment options. He also explored alternative therapies and made significant lifestyle changes, such as adopting a plant-based diet and reducing sugar intake, known as cancer’s favourite food.
Maintaining a positive outlook, Matthew documented his journey in a blog, expressing gratitude for the support he has received and the opportunities he has explored to prolong his life. He highlighted the challenges faced by brain tumour patients in accessing treatments and advocated for more options to be made available to improve outcomes.
Despite the obstacles and frustrations encountered along the way, Matthew remains determined to defy the odds and continue seeking ways to extend his life. His resilience, optimism, and proactive approach to his health have inspired many, reflecting his unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.
As Matthew navigates his cancer journey with courage and determination, his story serves as a beacon of hope and perseverance for others facing similar challenges. Through his fundraising efforts and advocacy for improved treatment options, he has become a symbol of resilience and strength in the fight against terminal illness.