Ep35: Advancing ALS Treatment with Focused Ultrasound: Bill’s Story

In this episode of Curing with Sound, we speak with Bill Traynor, a Canadian adventurer whose life shifted dramatically when he was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease), a neurodegenerative disorder with an average life expectancy of just two to five years. Once enjoying high-impact activities like skydiving, race car driving, and scuba diving, Bill's active lifestyle came to an abrupt halt.

Determined to face the diagnosis head-on, Bill became the first person to participate in a focused ultrasound clinical trial at Sunnybrook Research Institute, where researchers used a newly developed helmet to noninvasively and temporarily open the blood-brain barrier. This breakthrough allowed direct delivery of immunotherapy to his brain to reduce ALS-related neuroinflammation.

Discussion highlights:

• World-First Medical Breakthrough: Researchers used a new domed helmet, designed to temporarily open the blood-brain barrier in very specific regions of the brain, helping push more medication into areas affected by ALS. This new helmet provides enhanced image guidance, faster treatment times, and targeting capacity for the investigation of personalized therapies for patients with a variety of neurological conditions and diseases of the brain
• Promising Early Results: After treatment, the medication delivered to the brain stays in the tissue for two to eight weeks. Researchers will now track the trial participants over the next five months before deciding whether and how to expand this research.

All patient stories featured on the Curing with Sound podcast are personal accounts of an individual’s experience with focused ultrasound treatment. Please be aware that each patient’s situation is unique, and outcomes may vary. The information provided in this story should not be considered as medical advice or a guarantee of specific results. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to discuss your condition and determine the best treatment options for you. The Focused Ultrasound Foundation does not endorse any specific treatment or medical procedure and encourages all patients to seek professional medical guidance tailored to their individual needs.

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT ---------------------------- QUESTIONS? Email [e-mail] if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.

Email [e-mail] if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.

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