The Daniel Begg
Lung Cancer Molecular Diagnostics Program
Inspiration
Daniel Begg received a Stage IV Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer diagnosis in late November 2023, characterized by the EGFR Exon 20 Insertion mutation. Given the advanced stage of his cancer, he began immediate whole-brain radiation and targeted radiation to multiple areas in his spine. In January, Dan and his wife Josephine discovered and joined the Exon 20 Group, where they found a supportive community led by Marcia Horn. Throughout Dan's treatment, the group offered invaluable support, consistently sharing guidance, encouragement, and crucial information.
Dan received Amivantamab-vmjw in combination with chemotherapy (Pemetrexed and Carboplatin) as his initial treatment, following its addition to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines for Exon 20 in January 2024. He was the pioneering patient at Inova Fairfax Hospital in Fairfax, Virginia to undergo this therapy. Initially promising, with an estimated 60% overall regression in his body-wide tumors, Amivantamab-vmjw ceased to be effective within just four weeks, as confirmed by a PET scan on May 1st, 2024, revealing significant disease progression. Subsequently, Dan joined a clinical trial for DB-1305 at Next Oncology, under the care of Dr. Spira, receiving his first dose on May 10th, 2024. Unfortunately, due to the aggressive nature of his cancer, Dan passed away on May 26th, 2024, before the full effects of the new treatment could be realized.
Before his passing, Dan made a courageous decision to donate his body to the National Cancer Institute for research purposes. His motivation was to contribute to the advancement of cancer treatment research, hoping to spare other families from enduring the same hardships that he and his loved ones faced. In tribute to his memory, the Exon 20 Group established The Daniel Begg Lung Cancer Molecular Diagnostics Program. This initiative aims to support other patients and their families who choose to make a similar selfless donation and assist individuals needing additional molecular testing after disease progression. We are immensely proud of Dan's final act of selflessness.
The Daniel Begg Lung Cancer Molecular Diagnostics Program
is a vital part of ICAN's Cancer Patient Advocacy and Clinical Trials Program Advocacy Services.
Federal Tax I.D.: EIN 86-0818253