A Life Changing Clinical Research Trial Delivered Close to Home
A life changing clinical research trial delivered close to home
For Gary Meyer, life in south-central Nebraska has always been defined by simplicity – community, family, and a steady routine shaped by a lifelong career in banking. Living in Red Cloud, about 60 miles from Grand Island, he never imagined that access to cutting-edge cancer care would one day be available so close to home.
But when Gary was diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia, that access would make all the difference.
A Slow Diagnosis, A Thoughtful Approach
Gary’s journey began during a routine visit with his primary care provider, when elevated white blood cell counts raised concern. He was referred to a Nebraska Cancer Specialists clinic in Hastings, where his care team began closely monitoring his condition.For four years, Gary’s care followed a “watch and wait” approach, common for CLL, a typically slow-progressing form of leukemia.
“It really didn’t impact my daily life at all,” Gary recalls. “We just kept an eye on it.”
Eventually, as his blood counts changed, it became time to consider treatment.
A Unique Opportunity in Central Nebraska
Just as Gary and his care team began discussing next steps, an unexpected opportunity emerged. Through Nebraska Cancer Specialists’ cancer research program, Gary was offered the chance to participate in a clinical trial – one that would evaluate a promising new combination of therapies.
Even more remarkable: the trial was available right in Grand Island, eliminating the need to travel long distances to larger academic centers.
“For someone living in a rural area, that’s huge,” Gary says. “You don’t expect something like that to be available so close to home.”
In fact, Gary became the first patient in the world enrolled in this particular study.
A Decision Rooted in Trust and Purpose
Like many patients, Gary and his wife carefully considered the decision to participate in a clinical trial.
“There’s always some uncertainty,” he says. “But we trusted the team completely.”
That trust, combined with the potential to help future patients and his strong faith, ultimately guided his choice.
“If it could help someone else down the road, that mattered to us.”
Compassionate Care Every Step of the Way
Throughout his treatment, Gary was supported by the care team at Nebraska Cancer Specialists which included his oncologist, nurses, advanced practice provider, medical assistant, and patient scheduler, as well as an added layer of care involving the clinical research team guiding the trial.
The collaboration between the two teams combines decades of experience and works closely with one another to identify and provide the best possible opportunities for our patients. It requires collaboration and the bravery of our patients to trust both the opportunity, and our team, when choosing to participate in a clinical trial.
“I have been a research coordinator for more than 10 years and it’s such a rewarding job to be able to help our patients, especially when you get to work with patients like Gary,” said Brenda Broekemeier, a member of the NCS research team.
What stood out most wasn’t just clinical expertise, but the human connection.
“They knew who I was. They took the time to listen. That bedside manner – it really matters. If you could rate them, they’re a 10-plus,” Gary says.
Gary’s wife accompanied him to every appointment, and together, they felt supported at every step.
A Promising Outcome
Over the course of the 15-month trial, Gary underwent regular monitoring and treatment. Aside from some fatigue, he was able to maintain his normal lifestyle.
Today, his results speak for themselves.
“My white count is back down to normal levels,” he says. “I consider myself cancer-free.”
While CLL is considered a chronic condition, Gary remains optimistic and grateful for the outcome.
Expanding Access Through Clinical Research
Gary’s experience highlights a critical reality: patients in rural and central Nebraska can access leading-edge cancer treatments without leaving their communities.
Through clinical trials, Nebraska Cancer Specialists is helping bring the future of cancer care to patients, right where they are.
“These trials are important,” Gary says. “There’s no single cure for cancer yet. Everything we can do to move forward matters.”
A Message for Other Patients
For those considering a clinical trial, Gary offers simple advice:
“Ask questions. Trust your team. And don’t be afraid to consider it.”
For him, the experience was not only successful, but it was also meaningful.
“It worked out very well for me,” he says. “And if it helps someone else someday, that’s even better.”
