MD Anderson’s Role in Supporting a Bladder Cancer Survivor Through Multiple Recurrences

October 17, 2025

What began as a relaxing family getaway in New york City took an unexpected turn for Bill Hennessey, a resident of the Houston area. During the trip, he received a bladder cancer diagnosis that would reshape his following months.

Hennessey had experienced intermittent blood in his urine for approximately a month but initially attributed it to kidney stones. Though, when the condition intensified to a consistent presence, prompting daily bleeding, he recognized the need for immediate medical attention.

Urgent Care Leads to Shocking Discovery

A visit to an urgent care facility revealed a concerning finding: A doctor detected an abnormality during a physical examination and promptly advised Hennessey to proceed to the emergency room. Subsequent Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans uncovered a 2.5-centimeter tumor within his bladder. The news arrived as Hennessey was simultaneously navigating the complexities of selling both a home and a boat, adding to an already stressful period.

Fortunately, Hennessey was able to consult a urologist in New York who successfully removed the tumor. He was subsequently diagnosed with urothelial carcinoma, the most prevalent form of bladder cancer. Initially, the tumor was classified as low grade and non-invasive, indicating it had not spread beyond the bladder’s inner lining.

Treatment Path: From New York to MD Anderson

Following surgery, doctors proposed a weekly chemotherapy regimen consisting of gemcitabine, administered directly into the bladder. Considering his impending return home,they suggested continuing the treatment in Houston. During a consultation, Hennessey inquired about the possibility of receiving care at MD Anderson Cancer Center, a renowned institution near his residence. The doctor wholeheartedly endorsed this choice, saying, “If it were me, I’d go to MD Anderson.”

MD Anderson’s Complete Approach

Hennessey’s initial appointment at MD Anderson was on September 22, 2022, where he met with Urologic Oncologist Neema Navai, M.D.

“Dr. Navai explained that MD Anderson would conduct its own testing to validate my diagnosis,” Hennessey recalled. “Then, we would collaboratively develop a treatment plan.”

Dr. Navai performed both a cystoscopy and a biopsy on September 30. Remarkably, the tests revealed no presence of cancer. Thus, Dr. Navai recommended six doses of weekly intravesical therapy – the delivery of the chemotherapy drug gemcitabine directly into the bladder – followed by a year of monthly maintenance,including regular surveillance cystoscopies.

Though, a cystoscopy in February 2023 indicated a recurrence of the cancer. Dr.Navai removed several small tumors,and Hennessey continued with another six weeks of gemcitabine therapy. Following further monitoring with a cystoscopy on July 7, another six weeks of gemcitabine treatment ensued.

“With each cystoscopy, the number of tumors progressively decreased,” Hennessey noted.

A final cystoscopy and biopsy in December 2023 delivered encouraging news: no evidence of cancer was found.

“The initial recurrence was a shock,” Hennessey confessed, “but each subsequent time, a degree of anxiety accompanied the results – the fear of a comeback. Receiving confirmation of remission was incredibly relieving.”

Compassionate Care and a Focus on Well-being

Hennessey reported experiencing no notable side effects from the treatment. He noted that the primary discomfort stemmed from the insertion of the catheter or cystoscope. He highlighted the exceptional care provided at MD Anderson, contrasting it favorably with his previous experiences.

“The nurses were attentive to my comfort, offering practical tips for relaxation during cystoscopies and even suggesting a medication to alleviate cramping,” he explained.”The entire care team was fantastic, instilling a sense of calm and confidence. Their dedication is truly remarkable.”

Embracing a Health-Conscious Lifestyle

Currently cancer-free for over a year, Hennessey continues to undergo surveillance cystoscopies every six months at MD Anderson, with his last gemcitabine treatment completed in april 2025.

“While I wasn’t thrilled about weekly chemo, I persisted for an extended period, then transitioned to monthly treatments,” he said. “I even found myself slightly disappointed by the six-month interval between surveillance cystoscopies – a testament to the sense of security and care I experience at MD Anderson.”

Hennessey,who owns a small business,balances work with leisure activities,enjoying vacations with his wife.

“I now prioritize my health more than ever,” he stated. “I’m mindful of my diet, exercise regularly, and moderate my alcohol consumption. Swimming remains a lifelong passion,and I’m diligent about following my doctors’ recommendations and attending all appointments.”

He actively shares his story with others facing cancer diagnoses, emphasizing the importance of seeking expert medical guidance. “Don’t self-diagnose. Consult with specialists,” he advises.

“I’m grateful for my family’s support and the exceptional care I received at MD Anderson,” he concluded.

Request an appointment at MD Anderson online or call 1-877-632-6789.

Understanding Bladder Cancer Risk Factors

according to the American Cancer Society,approximately 80,470 new cases of bladder cancer will be diagnosed in the United States in 2024. Several factors can contribute to the development of bladder cancer, including smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, and a family history of the disease. Early detection is crucial for prosperous treatment.

Risk Factor	Estimated impact
Smoking	Accounts for roughly 50% of bladder cancer cases
Age	Risk increases with age; most diagnoses occur after age 55
Gender	Men are diagnosed more often than women

Disclaimer: This information is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is indeed essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bladder Cancer

Q: What are the early warning signs of bladder cancer?

A: Common symptoms include blood in the urine, frequent urination, painful urination, and pelvic pain.

Q: Is bladder cancer preventable?

A: While not entirely preventable, quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to certain chemicals can significantly reduce your risk.

Q: What is intravesical therapy used for in bladder cancer treatment?

A: Intravesical therapy delivers chemotherapy directly into the bladder to target cancer cells and prevent recurrence.

Q: How significant is early detection in bladder cancer?

A: Early detection dramatically improves treatment outcomes and increases the chances of remission.

Q: What is the role of cystoscopies in managing bladder cancer?

A: Cystoscopies allow doctors to visualize the bladder and identify any abnormalities, aiding in diagnosis and monitoring treatment effectiveness.

What are your thoughts on the importance of seeking second opinions when facing a cancer diagnosis? Share your experiences in the comments below!

Do you know someone who has been impacted by bladder cancer? How can we better support those affected by this disease?

What specific biomarkers are utilized at MD Anderson to detect recurrence, and how does biomarker testing influence treatment decisions for recurrent bladder cancer?

Understanding Recurrent Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer recurrence is, regrettably, a reality for many patients.While initial treatment – often including surgery like cystectomy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy – can be successful, the cancer can return locally or distantly. Understanding why recurrence happens is crucial. Factors include the initial stage and grade of the cancer, weather it invaded the muscle wall, and the patient’s overall health. MD Anderson Cancer center specializes in navigating thes complexities, offering a complete approach to managing recurrent bladder cancer and improving long-term outcomes.Terms frequently searched alongside this include “bladder cancer relapse rate,” “recurrent bladder cancer treatment options,” and “advanced bladder cancer.”

MD Anderson’s Multidisciplinary Approach to Recurrence

MD Anderson doesn’t view recurrence as a failure, but as a new challenge requiring a tailored strategy. Their approach centers around a multidisciplinary team. this means a collaboration between:

* Urologic Oncologists: Surgeons specializing in bladder cancer.

* Medical Oncologists: Experts in chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies.

* Radiation Oncologists: Utilizing radiation therapy to control cancer growth.

* Radiologists: Interpreting imaging scans to monitor the cancer’s response to treatment.

* Pathologists: Analyzing tissue samples to understand the cancer’s characteristics.

* Supportive Oncology Team: Providing crucial support for managing side effects and improving quality of life.

* Genetic Counselors: Assessing genetic predispositions and potential for targeted therapies.

This collaborative environment ensures each patient receives a treatment plan optimized for their specific situation. Patients often search for “bladder cancer specialist MD Anderson” or “best bladder cancer hospital.”

Advanced Diagnostic Tools for Detecting Recurrence

Early detection of recurrence is paramount. MD Anderson employs cutting-edge diagnostic tools:

* Surveillance cystoscopy: Regular visual examination of the bladder lining.

* Urine cytology: Examining urine samples for cancer cells.

* Imaging Scans: CT scans, MRI, and PET/CT scans to identify cancer spread.

* Biomarker Testing: Analyzing blood and urine for specific markers indicating cancer activity. Liquid biopsies are increasingly used to detect circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA).

* Molecular Profiling: analyzing the genetic makeup of the cancer cells to identify potential targets for personalized therapies.This is a key area of advancement in urothelial cancer treatment.

Treatment Options for Recurrent Bladder cancer at MD Anderson

The treatment approach depends on several factors, including the location and extent of the recurrence, the patient’s prior treatments, and their overall health. Options include:

1. Intravesical Therapy: For non-muscle invasive recurrence, therapies like BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin) or gemcitabine are instilled directly into the bladder.
2. Systemic Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. common regimens include gemcitabine and cisplatin, or alternatives for patients unable to tolerate cisplatin.
3. Immunotherapy: Harnessing the body’s immune system to fight cancer. PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors are frequently used, showing notable promise in recurrent bladder cancer. Keywords like “immunotherapy for bladder cancer recurrence” are highly searched.
4. Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer growth. MD Anderson is actively involved in clinical trials exploring new targeted therapies.
5. Radical Cystectomy: Surgical removal of the bladder, often considered for muscle-invasive recurrence. Robotic-assisted cystectomy is often utilized for minimally invasive surgery.
6. Clinical Trials: MD Anderson offers access to numerous clinical trials investigating novel therapies and treatment strategies. Searching for “bladder cancer clinical trials MD Anderson” is common.

Navigating Second and Subsequent Recurrences

Each recurrence presents unique challenges. MD Anderson’s approach shifts to maximizing quality of life while controlling the disease. This may involve:

* palliative Chemotherapy: focusing on symptom relief and improving comfort.

* Best Supportive Care: Managing pain, fatigue, and other side effects.

* Continued Monitoring: Regular scans and check-ups to track disease progression.

* Enrollment in Clinical Trials: Exploring experimental therapies that may offer new hope.

Supportive Care and Quality of Life

MD Anderson recognizes that bladder cancer and its recurrence impact more than just physical health. Their comprehensive supportive care services include:

* Psychological Counseling: addressing anxiety, depression, and emotional distress.

* Nutritional Support: Providing guidance on maintaining a healthy diet during treatment.

* Pain Management: Developing strategies to control pain and improve comfort.

* Financial Counseling: Assisting patients with navigating the financial challenges of cancer care.

* Rehabilitation Services: Helping patients regain strength and function after surgery or treatment.

real-World example: A Patient’s Journey

(Note: This is a generalized example based on common patient experiences, not a specific individual’s story to maintain privacy.)

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