Stage four bowel cancer story shows brave progress

A Surrey man diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer finds hope through immunotherapy and surgery.

Stage four bowel cancer held at bay with targeted therapy and surgery

Matt Eamer, 44, from Redhill in Surrey, began experiencing severe stomach pain in September 2020 while celebrating his son's birthday. He blamed it on a dodgy sausage at a family barbecue and was sent home with Buscopan. When pain persisted, hospital tests revealed a blockage in his large intestine and a diagnosis of stage four bowel cancer. After six months of chemotherapy, surgeons found the disease had spread to the peritoneum and noted a BRAF mutation. Doctors warned he had months to live, but he started a regimen that included immunotherapy Cetuximab and the targeted therapy Encorafenib. The drugs produced an unusual response and six months later scans showed no detectable cancer. A 14-hour operation in December 2024 removed rib tissue bearing the mutation and HIPEC chemotherapy, after which doctors reported no signs of disease. Five years on, Matt remains cancer-free and continues the medicines while preparing to cycle for charity and raise funds for Bowel Cancer UK.

This story shows how new cancer drugs can change a grim forecast. It highlights the role of biomarkers like the BRAF mutation in guiding treatment and the potential of combining immunotherapy with targeted therapy. Yet it also underscores the reality that access to these therapies varies and depends on clinical trials, hospital expertise, and cost. The personal angle—a family man who planned around small moments—emphasizes that survival is not just about extending life but about preserving quality and time with loved ones.

Highlights

Hope stays alive when science keeps pace with the disease.