Patient Story: Henry Klumak

In early December 2016, Klumak was diagnosed with Stage 4 metastatic colorectal cancer that had spread to his liver.

The diagnosis came as a complete shock. “I was a healthy 55-year-old accounting professional with my own firm, an active lifestyle, and a close-knit family.”

Klumak had undergone multiple rounds of intense chemotherapy and surgeries. However up until recently, Klumak underwent biomarker testing that showed his tumor was ERBB2-amplified. The biomarker test determined immunotherapy as the best targeted treatment for him. He is currently part of a clinical trial in Canada and is taking a combination of pertuzumab and trastuzumab.

Klumak is optimistic that with the immunotherapy drugs, his future scans will show an improvement in his metastasis. He also knows that he needs a constant positive attitude and a proactive approach to keep him going.

In recognition of World Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Day, Klumak has joined Colorectal Cancer Canada and our international partners to raise awareness about the importance of biomarker testing and immunotherapy as a targeted treatment available to metastatic colorectal cancer patients.

Together, with the help of Klumak and supporters like you, we intend to put metastatic colorectal cancer firmly on the agenda of governments, healthcare providers and key decision-makers around the world, as we campaign for further research to address gaps in knowledge and support the development of new, innovative and effective treatments.

Klumak hopes that by sharing his story, he can help make a difference.