Michael’s CAR-T journey to Shanghai: overseas choices and follow-up

Treatment and further searches after diagnosis

In spring 2025, Michael underwent chest imaging for persistent chest and shoulder pain and was subsequently diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Public fundraising information from family and friends further identified the subtype as primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma (PMBCL).

After six chemotherapy courses, the chest tumour enlarged again and liver and bone involvement appeared. Radiotherapy and immunotherapy followed, but he still needed new treatment options.

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Why he contacted the Shanghai team

He twice waited for a New Zealand CAR-T trial: once, rapid progression required immediate treatment in Auckland; on another occasion, substantial fluid accumulated in his lungs and around his heart before enrolment. Subsequent alternative immunotherapy also affected trial eligibility. His decision to travel to China therefore involved timely access as well as costs.

After comparing options in the United States, India and Australia, he held a video consultation with Shanghai SinoUnited Hospital haematologist Lily Zhou. Family and friends then helped raise funds for treatment and living expenses abroad.

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How family and friends supported treatment and travel

His Shanghai treatment spending was less than half the Australian quote he had obtained. Family and friends helped raise treatment and living costs and continued funding extended admission, accommodation, transport and recovery after arrival.

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Treatment in China: Treatment in Shanghai and a longer hospital stay

A family and friends update on 26 June 2026 confirmed his arrival in China and the start of his Shanghai CAR-T care journey. Treatment at Shanghai SinoUnited Hospital used his own T cells, modified and expanded outside the body before reinfusion.

An update on 12 August recorded complications around treatment and a lengthy admission. He was nearing treatment completion and awaiting the first scan. In Shanghai, he continued inpatient monitoring and recovery care.

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August assessment and plans to return home

On 18 August 2026, he learned that his lymphoma was in complete remission. In a public September interview, he hoped to return to Auckland and resume work and daily life. The reported interim outcome does not establish long-term cure, and the actual return date has not been confirmed in the public accounts.

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