Success Story
From Waiting Lists to a Life-Saving Breakthrough: How We Helped Sarah Get CAR-T Treatment in China
This is a hypothetical example for illustrative purposes only
Patient Profile
Name: Sarah L. (pseudonym)
Age: 51
Location: Christchurch, New Zealand
Diagnosis: Relapsed Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Situation: Exhausted all standard treatments in New Zealand; ineligible for local CAR‑T trials
The Challenge
Sarah had been battling lymphoma for nearly four years. After multiple rounds of chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant, her cancer relapsed again. Her oncologist mentioned that CAR‑T cell therapy might be a potential option, but:
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It was still under clinical trials in New Zealand, with strict eligibility requirements
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Enrolling in international programs (like in the US) was cost-prohibitive — over NZ$700,000
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She felt time was running out and couldn’t afford to wait
The Turning Point
Through a family friend, Sarah learned about our cross-border medical companion service. She reached out with hesitation, unsure if going to China was realistic. Within 48 hours, we helped her:
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Arrange a remote consultation with a leading hematology specialist at a top hospital in Shanghai
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Translate all her medical records and scan reports into Chinese
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Get a clear treatment plan, cost estimate (~NZ$180,000), and tentative admission timeline
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Secure a medical visa and plan the travel itinerary, including hospital pickup and hotel stay for her husband
The Treatment Journey
Sarah arrived in Shanghai within two weeks. Our bilingual care team:
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Picked her up at the airport and accompanied her to all hospital visits
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Helped her complete all pre-treatment testing and admission procedures
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Stayed on-call 24/7 during her hospital stay to help with translation, food, daily needs, and emotional support
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Coordinated regular updates with her New Zealand doctors
She completed CAR‑T infusion successfully, and within 6 weeks, her PET scan showed a complete metabolic response. Her recovery was closely monitored, and we helped her book a follow-up video consultation once she returned to Christchurch.
Sarah’s Words
“I didn’t expect to feel so safe in a country where I don’t speak the language. The hospital care was exceptional, and having someone with me through every step gave me peace of mind. Without this service, I wouldn’t have had a chance to access CAR‑T therapy in time.”
Outcome
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From inquiry to treatment: 3.5 weeks
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Estimated cost saved compared to US: over NZ$500,000
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Emotional and logistical support: 100% covered
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Health outcome: Complete remission confirmed by follow-up PET scan
Why This Matters
Sarah’s story reflects what many New Zealanders with complex or late-stage conditions face:
limited access to cutting-edge treatments due to cost, location, or waiting time.
At MedBridgeNZ, we’re here to change that — one patient at a time.
Want to know if you or a loved one may be eligible for CAR‑T therapy in China?
* Estimated total cost depends on hospital, procedure, and support level.
We work with both private hospitals (like Shanghai Jiehui International Hospital) and top-tier public institutions to suit different budgets and needs.
Disclaimer
This case study is a **hypothetical example** created for **illustrative purposes only**. It does not depict a real patient or treatment outcome. Actual medical results vary significantly depending on individual conditions. We are not a medical provider and do not make treatment decisions or guarantees. All medical services are delivered by licensed hospitals and healthcare professionals in China. Please consult your doctor before making any healthcare decisions.