When John Green completed a home test as part of the National Bowel Cancer Screening Programme in 2023, he did not expect it to change the course of his life.
Following the return of his colorectal cancer after earlier treatment in 2023, his consultant, Dr Prantik Das, made the decision to refer him from Derby to Icon Cancer Centre London, seeking access to highly specialised care not routinely available closer to home.
For Dr Das, the decision was clear.
John required stereotactic radiotherapy – a highly targeted form of radiotherapy that delivers precise doses of radiation to cancer cells while aiming to protect the surrounding healthy tissue.
Because John had previously received radiotherapy, his treatment required a particularly high level of planning and expertise, known as re-irradiation. This delivers radiotherapy to an area that has already been treated, where advanced imaging, precise targeting and experienced multidisciplinary teams are essential to ensure treatment is delivered safely while maximising the chance of controlling the cancer.
"Delivering radiotherapy for a second time is technically challenging and requires careful planning and expertise," Dr Das said.
"Re-irradiation is not suitable for every patient and requires specialist technology and clinical experience. I referred John to Icon because of its advanced technology and global expertise in complex treatments, including cutting-edge Varian linear accelerator systems with excellent imaging and visibility.
"I was confident he would be in very safe hands."
Confidence through expert care and clear communication
Despite understandable concerns about undergoing radiotherapy again, John felt reassured from the outset.
"The team explained everything clearly and were able to put me at ease," John said.
Over five treatment appointments delivered across just 10 days, John experienced a smooth, well-managed course of care. He tolerated the treatment extremely well without any significant problems.
Support that makes specialist care accessible
While travelling from the East Midlands, John was able to remain based at home, keeping disruption to family life to a minimum.
Icon's coordinated support, including organised transport, made accessing specialist treatment straightforward and stress-free.
"Icon organised the transport, which was a great help. It eliminated any potential stress," John said.
The right care, at the right time
For Dr Das, this wraparound support was a critical part of the referral decision.
"I knew the patient would receive comprehensive care – not just the treatment itself, but support with logistics and the overall journey. John responded very well to treatment, demonstrating how access to specialist expertise and advanced radiotherapy can provide excellent outcomes, even in complex re-irradiation cases" he said.
John reflects positively on his experience.
“My experience at Icon was very positive, I would encourage others to take up the treatment options available.”
To learn more about specialist radiotherapy treatment at Icon Cancer Centre London, please contact our team.