Support Elizabeth's Cancer Journey

Elizabeth is my firstborn daughter living in sunny California with her husband and two children ages 9 and 3 - and all that involves! She recently underwent a lumpectomy to remove breast cancer and affected lymph nodes. Due to the tumor size and node involvement, her oncologist recommended 8 rounds of AC-T chemotherapy (Adriamycin, Cytoxan, and Docetaxel) before her planned double mastectomy with reconstruction this spring. The chemotherapy would be given every two weeks, spanning a total of four months.

Seeking a second opinion, Liz consulted with integrative oncologist Dr. Von Schaefer, who conducted extensive blood tests, including the RGCC (Research Genetic Cancer Centre) test. The results revealed that Liz has also been battling chronic Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) alongside her stage III breast cancer. Dr. Von Schaefer explained that while chemotherapy is effective at killing rapidly dividing cells before surgery, the 8 doses of AC-T recommended would be excessive, as there is no longer a tumor to shrink. Additionally, the chemotherapy would leave her severely immunocompromised, given the underlying EBV. The RGCC test further indicated that the standard AC to T chemotherapy cocktail is not effective in targeting Liz's specific cancer cells, meaning the treatment may not provide much benefit while leaving her debilitated for months.

Dr. Von Schaefer's proposed treatment plan focuses first on addressing the EBV with Supportive Oligonucleotide Therapy (SOT) alongside a cancer-specific SOT. This innovative therapy uses Liz's own blood to create a personalized vaccine designed to disrupt the replication of pathogens. Afterward, she suggests 4 doses of a low-dose "insulin-potentiated" chemotherapy, at only 10-20% of the standard doses, using a personalized cocktail tailored to target Liz’s cancer cells, based on the RGCC results. This targeted approach is much less toxic than standard chemotherapy, which often relies on guesswork. In addition to chemotherapy, Dr. Von Schaefer recommends IV treatments to reduce inflammation and support DNA repair, especially in light of Liz’s genetic mutations (COX2, VEGF, MMP, mTOR and ATM).

Research has shown that hyperthermia can significantly enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy, so Liz will undergo hyperthermia sessions before, on the day of, and after chemotherapy. If possible, Dr. Von Schaefer also wants to incorporate Salicinium IVs, as this molecule showed promising results in Liz’s RGCC test. Salicinium is generally well tolerated by most people.

Liz is a stay-at-home mom, though she also teaches kids’ studio art at the Small Space Art Collective in San Clemente and boards dogs at home to help support her family. Her primary concern is being present for her children now and in the future. While hair loss is not a major issue for her, she is deeply concerned about the long-term side effects of conventional chemotherapy, such as heart problems, neuropathy, and early menopause. As a result, she has chosen to pursue the treatment plan outlined by Dr. Von Schaefer. However, the financial burden is significant, as much of the treatment is not covered by insurance. The chemotherapy alone costs approximately $5,000 per dose, and with 4 doses, plus the SOTs, IVs, hyperthermia, and additional treatments, the total cost is estimated at $45,000. This doesn’t include time off from jobs or the additional childcare required for kids during treatment.

To cover these costs, Liz has dipped into her savings, taken out a personal loan, and used credit cards with low interest rates. Her father and I are withdrawing some retirement savings to help, despite her reluctance to let us do so, but we also intend on traveling to CA from CT to be with her as long as we can manage. I have been encouraged by friends and family to create a fundraiser and am deeply grateful for any contribution, big or small. We understand that everyone has their own challenges in life and appreciate any support offered. Below are video links explaining the treatments.

Estimated Total: $45K

Dr Von Shaefer on Eradicating EBV and HBV and more

Dr Von Shaefer on Low Dose Chemotherapy