B.C. man fights to bring tumor-‘deleting’ cancer treatment to Canada

A B.C. man fighting cancer is questioning why a new innovative treatment is not accessible in Canada.

Ron Haufler was diagnosed with colon cancer that has spread to his liver in 2021. Despite three years of treatment, his tumors have developed resistance to chemotherapy.

“They basically told me, ‘You have a couple of years,’ and that’s it,” he said.

However, a new treatment available in the United States could potentially save his life.

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The non-invasive ultrasonic technique known as histotripsy uses sound waves to create targeted “bubble clouds” and eliminate tumors within an organ.

This procedure does not require surgery, has minimal side effects, and offers a short recovery time.

“It’s a very advanced technology that is non-invasive,”

“It can target a specific area and eliminate the solid tumor where it is located, turning it into liquid for the body to expel and heal,” he added.

Although histotripsy was approved by the U.S. FDA in late 2023, it is not currently available in Canada.

Haufler is now raising funds for the estimated $100,000 cost of the procedure at Seattle’s Providence Swedish Medical Center.

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He expressed frustration upon discovering that his cancer specialists seemed unaware of the procedure.

He also questioned why British Columbia has not taken proactive steps to acquire the technology.

“It seems absurd, because why wouldn’t our healthcare system invest in the equipment, bring it here for use, and start saving lives?” he inquired.

“Many individuals with various liver tumors could benefit from this technology today, rather than undergoing chemotherapy or radiation that causes significant harm,” he added.

Global News is reaching out to B.C.’s Ministry of Health for comment.

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Meanwhile, Haufler is collaborating with doctors at the Seattle hospital to prepare for the potential histotripsy procedure.

He is also actively fundraising to cover the costs involved.

However, he hopes that sharing his battle publicly could bring about positive changes for others in British Columbia.

“I aim to bring this technology here as soon as possible and raise awareness about its existence so that people can urge the government to take action,” he stated.

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