Patient Testimonials
The testimonials below represent just a small sample of our patients, all of whom are consistently enjoying exceptional results from our treatment.
My name is Terri Dilts. I was initially diagnosed with Stage IIB, triple-positive, breast cancer in September of 2000. I was a young mother with no family history of breast cancer. Entering cancer world, I was like a deer in the headlights. I didn't know anything about cancer or naturopathic treatment options. I entered the large, local hospital cancer center and did everything the oncologist had ordered - surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and finally a 5 year regime of Tamoxifen.
Fast forward to 2005, I was still on Tamoxifen, when the pain in my back had become unbearable and I was pursuing possible surgery/surgeons. It was then I had my first body scan, which revealed cancer activity in my spine. I knew nothing about metastatic cancer at this time of my life.
First off, I had already celebrated my 5yr cancerversary! That fictional holy-grail that leads to disappointment and heartbreak for many of us. Secondly, I had no bloody idea that breast cancer could travel to different parts of my body. Nobody mentioned "metastatic" to me in the 5+ years I had been receiving care at the hospital.
Upon this second, Stage IV, diagnosis, I was again immersed into "standard of care" at the hospital. I started with radiation which helped my back pain immensely. I then completed 6 rounds of Carbo/Taxol combination + Herceptin (as I was high HER2nu over expressed) + a bisphosphonate. As I was recovering from this toxic assault, I learned a lot more about metastatic cancer and read about Dr. Linus Pauling's research into high-dose IV, Vitamin C therapy. I asked my then oncologist to start me on this regime. He told me in no uncertain terms that it was "quackery" and he didn't know, and didn't want to know, how to do this.
So, I fired him.
By the middle of 2006 I found Seattle Cancer Treatment & Wellness and they were practicing cancer care in a different and exciting way. I met Dr. Chen, MD and Dr. Mark Gignac, ND. My cancer was stable at this point. I started receiving weekly doses of Herceptin, high-dose Vitamin C and taking Femara (an aromatase inhibitor). I upped my investment into supplements recommended by the naturopath. I cleaned up my diet to include organic and/or clean foods - an integrative approach to cancer care - something the standard of care was/is lacking and something I was very interested in.
I've had many progressions of the cancer over these years. It morphs upon occasion and Dr. Chen and I have to figure out what's next. With Dr. Chen's help and expertise, I have survived far beyond the average metastatic breast cancer life-span. 25 years! Not many individuals can claim this longevity. I cannot imagine my cancer care without Dr. Chen and his willingness to think "outside the box" to give me the best care possible.
Terri Dilts
In October, 2011 I was diagnosed with Stage III C ovarian cancer. Within weeks I was recovering from a radical hysterectomy that included the removal of my omentum. Having removed all the visible cancer from my body the surgeon/oncologist at St. Joseph's Hospital in Tacoma said my prognosis was good so long as I began chemotherapy right away. Because the surgery was deemed successful I opted not to begin chemotherapy. I couldn't bear the thought of being sick, weak, unable to care for my young children or work the job I loved.
In 2013 our family relocated to Grand Junction, CO. For nearly seven years the cancer lay dormant. In July of 2018 a CT scan revealed several large tumors. Following a surgical debulking, my oncologist informed me the cancer had become more aggressive and the only option I had for treatment was chemotherapy.
Since August of 2018 I have received three rounds of chemotherapy. My treatments began in August of 2018 through Grand Valley Oncology in Grand Junction, Colorado and ended in June of 2022 with inpatient overnight infusions at the Cleveland Clinic main campus during our brief residence in Ohio from August, 2020 through August, 2022. Because of an adverse reaction to carboplatin during my second round of chemotherapy in Grand Junction the oncologist at the Cleveland Clinic wanted to reintroduce carboplatin in the chemo regimen and scheduled 24 hour long infusions to desensitize me to the carboplatin- the 'gold standard' drug for cancer treatment.
In spite of three chemo rounds, the cancer was not eradicated. The tumors in my body were 'stabilized' but not shrinking. My platelet levels and white blood cell counts were very low causing chemo infusions to be postponed several times until the platelet and white blood cell counts increased. As I was not improving with this treatment and only finding myself weaker and sicker due to the chemo I asked the oncologist if other treatment options existed. On at least two occasions I asked about trial drugs or other options she responded that chemo was my only option.
We left Ohio in August of 2022 for his new position in Western Washington with no referrals from the treating oncologist at the Cleveland Clinic and no suggested treatment plan other than continuing chemotherapy. I sought out care from a naturopathic oncologist in Bellingham, WA who in turn referred me to Dr. Nick Chen at Seattle Integrative Cancer Center. While the vitamin C infusions and supplements prescribed to me by the naturopathic oncologist staved off the cancer for a few months I soon found a lump above my right clavicle which I feared might be a swollen lymph node. A CT scan revealed the cancer was spreading throughout my abdominal cavity and lungs.
Up to this time I had managed this disease with a sense of cautious optimism. I had lived with the diagnosis for over a decade and I had convinced myself it was chronic but manageable. The Stage IV diagnosis left me hollow with despair. Enter Dr. Chen.
Having come from the 'renowned' Cleveland Clinic with little more than a 'good luck and good-bye' from the treating oncologist, I approached my initial visit with Dr. Chen guardedly. Dr. Chen was kind and listened as I explained to him I wasn't interested in chemotherapy after 3 unsuccessful rounds. His response surprised me. Dr. Chen said I had a very specific type of ovarian cancer that he felt would respond well to a trial drug. To the best of my recollection, Dr. Chen was the first oncologist to inform me of the particular 'strain' of cancer in my body. This trial drug was showing great promise with small cell lung cancer patients and he was optimistic this specific ovarian cancer would respond to the trial drug as well.
After my consultation with Dr. Chen I was escorted to his infusion room for some bloodwork. While waiting I started a conversation with a lady who said she flew in from California every month for treatment with Dr. Chen. She had the means to go to any cancer center for treatment. She said after extensive research she chose Dr. Chen. This woman claimed her results under Dr. Chen's care had been very promising.
Within 10 days of starting the drug, the prominent swelling in my lymph node disappeared. It was nothing short of miraculous to me as I had very mild side effects from the drug which disappeared over time. All the while Dr. Chen carefully monitored my progress and continued with diagnostics to ensure my body was tolerating the drug.
This month marks two years since I began treatment with Dr. Chen. I have been in remission for over one year and my CT scans over the past two years has shown a marked decrease in the size of pre-existing tumors. I live a fully normal life with no restrictions. Having been treated for this disease by multiple providers from different states over the past thirteen plus years puts me in a unique position to recommend Dr. Chen to any person burdened with a cancer diagnosis.
If you, like me, have been written off by other oncologists who can't or won't invest the time studying your medical records and/or think outside the box when it comes to developing a treatment plan that might not only save your life but improve it as well, I hope this testimonial will inspire you to reach out to Dr. Chen and his dedicated team.
Lisa Ellis
February 2, 2017 - The Diagnosis
I had trouble swallowing one morning at breakfast. That was the only time I had any symptom of illness, and I never gave it another thought. My annual wellness visit was in two days, so I mentioned it at that checkup. Though it seemed minor, my doctor decided to order an ultrasound just to be sure.
That ultrasound led to a CAT scan which led to a PET scan and a diagnosis of Stage IV Esophageal Cancer with metastasis to my liver, lymph nodes, and my lung. When I met with a local oncologist at Cancer Care Northwest after the diagnosis, I was told that they would proceed with the maximum tolerated chemotherapy protocol. The prognosis was devastating when I was told I had about six months to live, maybe nine months if I could tolerate a second round of chemo.
Unfortunately, I didn't tolerate the conventional chemo well. I became so ill that I ended up hospitalized for a month with a significant number of serious physical complications. It became clear that even the six-to-nine-month life expectancy I had been given was no longer realistic given my deteriorating condition.
April 2017 - Finding Hope at Seattle Integrative Cancer Center
After this difficult experience, we knew we needed to explore other options. Through a close family friend, who had experienced remarkable results with his own advanced cancer treatment, we learned about the protocol practiced by Dr. Nick Chen. We immediately scheduled an appointment with Dr. Chen at Seattle Integrative Cancer Center.
After hearing my story and after I asked about my six-to-nine-month life expectancy, Dr. Chen looked at me and said something I'll never forget: "We don't limit life expectancy here." He expressed regret that my first provider had used extensive radiation, explaining he could have achieved the same results with chemotherapy alone without damaging my tissues. The effects of that radiation damage continue to plague me to this day. Understanding how ill I had been, he recommended I take a few weeks at home to rest before beginning a new treatment approach.
Dr. Chen developed an integrative treatment plan that combined metronomic chemotherapy with supportive therapies including nutritional guidance and supplements. My treatment plan involved weekly chemotherapy for an extended period. Although my treatment was lengthy and required a commitment on my part, Dr. Chen's protocol caused only a fraction of the illness and discomfort I had experienced with maximum tolerated dose chemotherapy. The difference was remarkable—I could still participate in my life throughout the treatment process.
August 7, 2023 - Remission
After a final CAT scan and PET/CT scan, it was confirmed that my treatment was successful. After 2,349 days of fighting cancer—more than six years—my esophagus, liver, and lungs were finally free of tumors. Throughout this journey, my wife and I drove between Spokane and Seattle approximately 170 times, logging nearly 95,000 miles for my treatments. We made this commitment because we saw consistent progress with Dr. Chen's protocols, even before full remission was achieved. Each positive scan result gave us the strength to continue these demanding trips. The distance we traveled reflects our complete faith in Dr. Chen and the extraordinary care provided by Seattle Integrative Cancer Center—care that ultimately saved my life when other doctors chose not to fight with me. On August 7, 2023, I was released from further treatment—something I never thought possible when I received my initial diagnosis.
2025 - Eight Years and Counting
I just celebrated my eight-year anniversary since my initial diagnosis—a milestone which my original doctors never suggested was possible. I have now been out of active treatment for sixteen months. A recent CAT scan showed no evidence of any cancer anywhere in my body.
Dr. Chen's approach at Seattle Integrative Cancer Center offers cancer treatment that is innovative, successful, and completely alters the course of even very advanced cancers like mine. For patients like me who were told they had mere months to live, this center provides something beyond treatment—it provides genuine hope backed by results.
Seattle Integrative Cancer Center isn't just another treatment facility; it's a lifeline for cancer patients who deserve both extended survival and quality of life during their cancer journey. Of course, my family's unwavering support was my lifeline throughout this journey—however, it was Dr. Chen's expertise and treatment approach that made my survival possible. He gave us precious years together that would have been lost had we accepted my initial prognosis. Every birthday, holiday, and ordinary day I've experienced since 2017 is a gift made possible by Dr. Chen and Seattle Integrative Cancer Center.
I urge potential investors, grant providers and government officials to consider funding support to recognize the unique and valuable approach this center provides. Without Dr. Chen and his team, I simply wouldn't be here today to share my story. How many others could benefit from this approach if the center can secure the funding it needs to continue its important work.
Every patient deserves access to care that doesn't limit their possibilities for recovery—care that offers both hope and results. Seattle Integrative Cancer Center must continue to be available for those facing impossible odds, so they too can write their own stories of survival rather than accepting predetermined timelines.
Bob Kaczka
I just want to express my feelings about how I feel about Dr. Chen and his staff. On October 3 of 2022, I was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma and leukemia. It was a non-mutated aggressive form. This started my journey in the world of cancer, or should I say the battle of fighting cancer? I had some awareness of the cancer battle as I watched a couple of long-term employees fight and lose their battles, but in reality, I had so much more to learn. Now my fight began in meeting with unknown terms like oncologist and other medical terms that have now become a part of my everyday vocabulary. I've taken team approach, like running a business, I needed to educate myself, build a team, and adjust to the circumstances of my body just like I do in business.
Dr. Chen is very special. Let me tell you why. I was diagnosed at Virginia Mason and also given what I would refer to us to chart definition of life expectancy which was nine months to a year and a half, it was a cold business-like approach. I was just another number or who's the next client feeling. My cancer was just another in a long line of other cancer clients. Additionally, I reached out to Swedish and got an oncologist. The Doctor there specialized in my type of cancer. She gave me fantastic advice to build a team and make decisions that make sense for me. I give that doctor a lot of credit for that, she was very caring but was not open-minded to any natural approach. Both doctors from Swedish and Virginia Mason said I was not bad enough on the charts for chemotherapy that the results of chemo or side effects of chemo were worse than what it would for me right now.
My naturopathic doctor, in Monroe, Washington recommended Dr. Chen, I have to admit I was very reluctant, because I felt two was enough and I was a little bit overwhelmed. But she was persistent and to give it a try. I got an appointment and Dr. Chen was very straightforward. He attacked the disease, but dignified me as a person, his conversations and his thinking of how to handle the disease was very open minded. It wasn't just about the "normal" way to handle it, but how we could do the traditional medical way and the natural way I was looking at and combine them. I was grateful for that approach. I felt I had a partner tackling the problem. He was very open to alternative therapies which the other doctors were not. One of the other doctors said that one of the natural therapies was like witchcraft. I find it hard to believe that they had even done any research or read any papers on it. Dr Chen view was that it was not going to hurt me in any way so that if I had done my research and felt it would help to go ahead.
In using traditional and natural methods I have been able to get my cancer down from 47% lymphatic to 2%. Dr. Chen has been so encouraging by letting me know that I can live with this for 20 years by continuing in my fight. I remember my first day in the infusion room, Dr. Chen said it's best that we do it together that we can talk and bond with others. Initially, I was scared and wanted to be private, but he was right the bonding of others in that room was very powerful and encouraging. I have gained many dear friends in that room that I still communicate with. I cannot express it in words of how unique Dr. Chen's approach is to the fight of cancer, I am so grateful that he's accepted me and now my wife's fight with breast cancer, as patients, I have talked to more than 40-50 people in detail of my doctors in my journey, I have recommended Dr. Chen to them and the other doctors.
Working with Dr. Chen I've had the privilege of seeing my first grandchild being born and taking her steps. I also was able to accept a prestigious international award for the most difficult job of Window Coverings for 2024 for my company. I also was able to help in my wife's journey with breast cancer. Even in fighting this disease I have been living a rich and fulfilling life. Through all of this I've been able to live a very rich and fulfilling life. The best thing I got from Dr. Chen was a sparkle in his eye when he said "I checked the back of your foot and didn't see an expiration date". I still laugh when I think of that.
Michael and Tamar DeGraff
I feel blessed to have been told about Dr. Chen after being diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, P16 positive in February of 2020 especially after the ENT told me what my options were. I never went to a radiologist or a surgeon and came to see Dr. Chen. His integrative approach was in line with my thoughts. Now it's January 2025 and have No evidence of disease = NED.
Thank you Dr. Chen
Michael D. Mounts
My name is Nancy Jarigese and I am writing to express my happiness with the care I and my husband, Randy Jarigese, each received as cancer patients of Dr. Chen. I believe that the treatment we received from Dr. Chen is responsible for the fact that we are both alive and healthy at this point.
I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, Stage 3 at the age of 52 in 2009. Although my gynecologist and my surgeon both told me to just find the most convenient oncologist/chemo location ("they all will do the same treatment") my husband did some research and found that the standard treatment was not all that successful. In his research he came across the Cancer Treatment of America satellite site in Renton, Washington and we made the trip up there to talk to them. Dr. Chen was one of the oncologists there at the time and at my initial visit he explained to me how he did things slightly different from the standard protocol. Rather than doing 6 "big" hits of chemo every three weeks, he did a smaller dose of chemo every week. In addition, he supported his patients with complementary treatments as well - IV Vitamin C and various supplements. After I talked to Dr Chen and the assisting naturopath, I knew I wanted to go that route for my treatment. I took the train up to Renton from my home in Portland every week for 30 treatments. While not convenient, the weekly treatments did not make me sick (my main complaints were fatigue, hair loss, and muscle aches). My daughter was only 7 at the time and I was able to continue taking her to school, cook, care for my family and even teach Sunday School during the time I was under Dr. Chen's care. After my 30 treatments, I was cancer free and I am happy to report that at almost 16 years out, I am still cancer free and healthy. I credit Dr. Chen and his protocol for this outcome.
Thirteen years later, in 2022, my husband was diagnosed with ureteral carcinoma, stage 4. Although he knew he wanted to go to Dr. Chen, who thankfully was still treating patients at the Seattle Integrative Cancer Center in Renton, he also consulted with a local oncologist. The local oncologist told him he would need to have one kidney removed and then he would need 6 rounds of aggressive chemo (or maybe 4 rounds if he "couldn't tolerate the chemo") - or perhaps he would need to try a more experimental drug since she wasn't sure his kidney could tolerate the chemo. After talking to the local oncologist, Randy scheduled an appointment with Dr. Chen. At the Seattle Integrative Cancer Center, he found compassionate nurses and staff and, of course, the skill and care of Dr. Chen. He had 18 chemo treatments, and like myself, did not get sick. At this point in early 2025 his scans show no signs of cancer and he still has both of his kidneys. Again, we credit Dr. Chen's skill in treating Randy with his positive outcome.
Both my husband and myself unequivocally recommend Dr. Chen to our friends who are diagnosed with cancer. A few have listened to us and chosen to go up to Renton. However, sadly most of them believe that the weekly trip up to the Seattle area is too much and choose to go the standard route and sadly most of them suffer immensely from the treatment they receive. I am so grateful for the treatment protocol that Dr. Chen offers. It is a gift and I can't imagine where my husband and I might be if we hadn't had the opportunity to be treated by Dr. Chen.
Nancy Jarigese
I am writing to express my eternal gratitude to Nick Chen of Seattle Integrative Cancer Center.
In 2018 my mom was diagnosed with Stage IIIb non-small cell lung cancer / adenocarcinoma at 8cm, and then jumped up to 10cm. Dr. Chen was 1000% diligent and proactive in getting my mom in once a week for her chemo and then immunotherapy Keytruda and vitamin C infusions. This medicine is not the typical western style and had she not gone to see Chen, she would not be here today. He was always positive that he could beat her cancer and because of that, she kept her positivity, which can make all the difference when fighting for your life. Dr. Chen is amazing, and anytime we hear of a loved one or friend who gets ill, we advise them to get a second opinion with Chen. We appreciate how he uses Eastern integrative medicine and natural supplements in addition to the low dose chemo and radiation treatments. It was less harmful on her body and my mom was able to heal quickly after the treatments. Again, Chen is amazing and because of his expertise and diligence, he saves lives. If I am ever sick, I pray that I will be able to go see him. I know he will take good care of anyone he treats.
Rabecka Lautt
Several years ago (maybe 17-18, I'm not sure), I was diagnosed with breast cancer at my local hospital. Immediately they wanted to push me through their system and schedule surgery. I thought "Whoa, I want to get another opinion", so I contacted the Seattle Cancer Treatment and Wellness Center, part of Cancer Treatments Centers of America where Dr Chen was working at the time. I liked their unique holistic approach, and I began treatment there with Dr Chen. I'm so glad I did!
Contrary to what the local hospital told me when I was first diagnosed, he thought surgery wasn't necessary since the cancer had metastasized, and he thought we could get it all through his unique protocol. And I'm so glad I never did have a mastectomy. With stage 4 cancer, it is essentially a death sentence. But Dr. Chen gives his patients hope, and a positive attitude is a key to healing. It took 9 months of the metronomic type of chemo to get me cancer-free. This protocol is a superior method for treating cancer using low doses of chemo once a week rather than heavy doses every 3 weeks. With this very effective method of gentler doses of chemo, the immune system isn't hit so hard, and cancer cells don't have a chance to grow over 3 weeks. I followed up with 6 weeks of radiation to get any stray cancer cells.
Another very helpful thing I liked about working with Dr Chen is being able to work with a naturopath. The naturopath helped with a cancer diet, boosting my immune system, and minimalizing side effects. Most traditional oncologists don't want you to work with naturopaths which is sad.
I was cancer-free for 6 years, and then it came back. But after 3 months of Dr. Chen's superior care, it was gone and has remained gone for 12-13 years now!
The life expectancy of the kind of cancer I had is 2 years with treatment. There is no explanation for my still being alive other than Chen's amazing care and lots of prayers. My heart breaks when I hear about or talk to people who refuse to try something outside the box and go with the medical establishment's way of treating cancer. I have sent quite a few friends to Dr Chen who are open-minded, and they have all been very pleased. His center is like a boutique with very personal care rather than an impersonal institution. I'm not a bit surprised that people come from all over the country to be treated by Dr Chen when they are willing to step outside the box and get the best possible care that they can get.
I couldn't applaud Dr Chen more enthusiastically. He helped save my life and the lives of countless others. He sincerely cares for his patients, is humble, gentle, and very positive, traits that many doctors lack. I'm counting on his being here for me for the rest of my life.
Susan Durr
I was a healthy 46 year old female with two young children when I was diagnosed with Stage IIIC breast cancer and 23 positive lymph nodes 16 years ago. The first oncologist I treated with was recommended to me by my surgeon. He was not too positive and only wanted to discuss my prognosis. When I told him I didn't want to know my prognosis but wanted to know my treatment plan, he went over to my sister, who was with me, to tell her my prognosis. She too said "no." This doctor's treatment plan was monthly chemotherapy — no Vitamin C, and no naturopathic care. After that first visit, I didn't go back.
I met Dr. Chen by chance after I treated with Dr. Riley (Dr. Chen's naturopathic partner at the time). When I met Dr. Chen, the first thing he said to me was "We're going to cure you." With that in mind, I thought, "I can beat this." Under Dr. Chen's care, I completed six months of weekly chemotherapy treatments, followed by six weeks of radiation and Herceptin treatments. I also had weekly Vitamin C treatments along the way. I didn't miss one day of work, ran the stairs at work with my co-workers, and went to my kids' soccer games and school events. I felt good. When my platelets were low one week and there was a possibility I wouldn't be able to have chemotherapy the following week, Dr. Riley recommended I take Sesame Seed oil. I followed his advice, drank the oil, and within the week, my platelet number was high enough to continue with chemo. And after I completed my first three months of chemotherapy, Dr. Chen's staff bought me presents and gave me a graduation certificate. I felt I was on my way to a full recovery.
The next 16 years went by smoothly. I was in remission! I saw my kids graduate from college and get good jobs, I retired, and then boom........the cancer was back.
I had continued to go to monthly Vitamin C treatments and six-month checkups with Dr. Chen. During one of these visits, Dr. Chen heard muffling in my left lung. Being proactive as he is, he sent me for a chest CT ASAP. The CT showed I had cancer in a rib and in some areas around my left lung. I also had fluid in my left lung. Dr. Chen reassured me — just as he had 16 years ago. He told me "We can get this in remission."
I am now nine months out since I was diagnosed with my recurrence of cancer. Dr. Chen has me on a regimen of Verzenio and Letrozole. I also take Turkey Tail mushrooms. I started with a tumor marker of 3,300 and I am now down to 210. I feel great. I went on an Alaskan cruise, Palm Springs, Montana — I feel "normal."
Dr. Chen has been a lifesaver to me and I would and HAVE recommended him to others. I feel my kids have their mom, my husband has his wife, and my sister has her sister because of Dr. Chen's knowledge and care.
Sherrie L.
My name is Peri DiCrescentis and I am 77 years old. I have had cancer, off and on, since 2006. I have been with Dr. Chen since about 2007. I currently have my 5th breast cancer diagnosis. Both of my paternal grandparents and two of my father's three siblings and my father died of some variety of cancer — brain cancer, breast cancer, endometrial cancer, leukemia. One of my aunts survived her breast cancer. I am the only one of 7 cousins in my generation to have had cancer.
I initially had just calcifications that were found in a mammogram at Evergreen Hospital in 2006. I had a lumpectomy with clear margins. An Evergreen oncologist did recommend chemotherapy and radiation at that time but I refused. My tests showed I was clear of cancer for about a year.
In 2007 a small tumor was found on my mammogram. My doctor recommended Dr. Chen over Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, UW Medicine and Seattle's Children's hospital, which were working together then. I was in my 60's. Dr. Chen's office is in Renton. I live in Edmonds. I was in a bad car accident in my 30's and am still an anxious driver. I was told Dr. Chen would require me to come to the clinic once a week for 12 weeks, winter months, January thru March, I think. I went to meet Dr. Chen on my doctor's advice, sure that I would never drive once a week from Edmonds to Renton. I met Dr. Chen and, that very day, it was clear to me and my husband, that I would do that very thing. Dr. Chen is a Master and it was apparent on meeting him. His protocols are intense but meant to support the body in healing. I had confidence he would heal me, and he did. His Vitamin C therapies have, I believe, given me the life I have today.
I received Vitamin C infusions from Bastyr University and Dr. Chen for over 10 years. I did have two reoccurrences during that period, ironically both after the only times I missed a month of vitamin C infusions. In 2020 I had bacteria in my port and had to have it removed. I have had no Vitamin C infusions since and I have had two reoccurrences and 17 radiation treatments as a result.
For the last year and a half I have been having blood tests that identify circulating cancer cells. In August some CTCs were found — too few to analyze but enough to know there is cancer there. A recent test indicated that I have the gene p53 which is a gene mutation which suppresses protection from cancer tumors. It is not surprising that I have had multiple cancer reoccurrences. For now, I am getting monthly Faslodex shots and watching blood tests every three months.
To recap: I have had cancer off and on since 2006. Dr. Chen has kept me alive and more than that. Except for the times when I was doing chemotherapy and radiation, I have enjoyed a very good quality of life. Just before this last diagnosis I was in his office and I said to Dr. Chen: "How can this be? I am 77 years old and I have had cancer four times and I feel good! I am healthier and more active than my friends and siblings!" I credit Dr. Chen and his multiple therapies and wisdom for this! I have lost so many friends to cancer who were treated by other providers and more intensive chemo and less body friendly therapies at SCCA and Swedish. I could not hold Dr. Chen in higher regard!!!
Peri DiCrescentis
I was diagnosed with CLL at the age of 59. I am now 82, and I am doing fine because of his professional care. I was originally at Group Health (now Kaiser) and they would not help me, so the oncologists there said see Dr. Chen. It was the best decision of my life. I also was seen briefly at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (UW), and they were close to worthless even though they have a lot of visibility. They wanted me to pay to be in a research study. I declined.
The original oncologist said Group Health tied their hands to help me. They would not pay for the treatments.
I recommend and have recommended Seattle Integrative Cancer Center to others who have had their lives saved by Dr. Chen. One man was a high school friend, and he was clearly dying. Dr. Chen saved him and he is doing well. He is the best. He is caring, creative, respectful and he integrates Western Medical treatments with natural and herbal treatments. He has a Ph.D. as well as an M.D. and it shows in genuine results with difficult cancers. I have always been highly impressed with his ingenuity and his bright mind.
Dr. Chen has saved many lives. Some went elsewhere first, but were lucky to find him. I am one of the lucky ones. It upsets me that insurance companies are so dishonest and unethical so they do not reimburse him for his fine work.
I am medically astute, have a Ph.D. and I am still working as a therapist at age 82. Without Dr. Chen this would not have been possible.
I recommend Dr. Chen and his caring staff without reservations.
Roger Libby, Ph.D
I was first diagnosed on October 25, 1999 with ductile carcinoma in the right breast at Evergreen Hospital. I then had a lumpectomy with a follow-up surgery to trim the margins. This was followed by 35 radiation treatments and a 5-year course of tamoxifen.
I was then monitored until 2007 when my oncologist put me on Femara for 6 months, but the side effects were severe and I had to stop the treatment. Everything was stable for approximately 5 years after that. I continued to see a naturopath during that time.
In 2012 I went in for a CT scan of my colon where it was discovered that the cancer had spread to my lungs and liver. I was diagnosed with HR-positive HER-2 negative cancer at Swedish Hospital and was treated using anastrozole.
I then transferred to SCCA who continued to monitor my case. They kept wanting to put me on medicine to treat bone density due to the side effects. I was encouraged by my naturopath in 2022 to not go on it but rather make an appointment with Dr. Chen at Seattle Integrative Cancer Center.
Dr. Chen reviewed my case and determined that I was not HR-positive HER-2 negative but rather that my cancer had morphed into triple positive over 9 months prior to that appointment, and I had never been notified of that change by my previous oncologist. A CT scan revealed that my cancer had spread into my lungs, lymph nodes, liver, bones and peritoneum.
Dr. Chen then put me on a program that included 28 treatments of Taxol and Carboplatin along with targeted treatment monoclonal antibodies. Those treatments, though challenging, have been very successful. My last CT scan was essentially clear and my cancer marker numbers are much closer to the normal range. I am now down to only needing to have an infusion of Trazimera every 3 weeks and one shot of Faslodex every 4 weeks.
I am very thankful to Dr. Chen and his wonderful staff for everything they have done for me. Dr. Chen thinks outside the box and does research beyond the one-size-fits-all programs used by the big cancer centers. We have spoken to many other patients who have said that they were told by their oncologists to go home and get their affairs in order and have now been given hope by Dr. Nick Chen at Seattle Integrative Cancer Center.
Loraine Harris
10 years ago, I was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. It was one of the darkest and most difficult times in my life. The chemotherapy treatments left me feeling miserable and hopeless, till I found Dr. Chen. Under Dr. Chen's care, everything began to change. He started treating me with high-dose Vitamin C infusions in combination with my chemotherapy. Over time, my condition improved, and I entered remission. Even after my cancer went into remission, Dr. Chen continued to give me weekly Vitamin C infusions to support my overall health and immune system.
Today, I am incredibly grateful to say that I am still cancer-free. I believe it's nothing short of a miracle. The Vitamin C therapy has not only supported my recovery but has given me a better quality of life than I ever imagined during those early days of treatment.
Dr. Chen, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your dedication, your wisdom, and the compassion you show every single patient. I know I speak for many in our Vitamin C group when I say how deeply we appreciate everything you do. I hope more people come to know about this powerful, life-affirming therapy. It changed my life - and it just might change theirs too.
With sincere gratitude
[Anonymous]
My name is Glenn Gaither, this is my cancer survival story.
I was diagnosed with metastasized pancreatic cancer on August 16th 2016. The first two oncologists I sought advice from started their conversations with talk about making me comfortable and palliative care.
Dr. Chen was different. I went to him on the advice of a good friend and former patient of his, Randy Netherlin. Randy's survival story was my first glimmer of hope and some of the best advice I received after getting the diagnosis of a terminal illness. Dr. Chen never once talked to me about end of life care; he talked about strategy, stating that it was a tough diagnosis but that he had a plan. It was the first bit of good news I had in a long time.
Unfortunately for me, the Whipple surgery I had at Virginia Mason (not with Dr. Chen) ended up having complications, complications that would delay treatment for a few months. I believed at that time my race was lost; it was not. After almost four months of weekly surgery to help with healing from the Whipple procedure, we started chemo, something that I had feared due to all the nightmarish stories I heard about doing chemo and the side effects. I braced for what I knew was going to be incredibly difficult if not impossible.
I did over 60 infusions of LOW dose chemo, followed by vitamin C infusion. I also did over 30 procedures that required anesthesia. I know in my mind that if I had done full strength chemo without the vitamin C infusion, I wouldn't be writing this letter now free of pancreatic cancer for over five years. I was able to tolerate low chemo infusions; I know that I never would have been able to tolerate the standard of treatment, which is to hammer the cancer with excessive amounts of chemo, the kind of chemo that can destroy your immune system.
I learned a lot about the immune system and how it's the only thing, in the long run, that kills cancer. That's why it always baffled me why other doctors push chemo to the point of destroying the one thing that will save you in the long run—your immune system.
I suffered like so many others who get this particular type of cancer, but I can look back now and say without reservation that it would have been far worse for me if I had received the industry standard of care for my cancer. It wouldn't have been survivable and I would have suffered more. For me, low dose chemo and Vitamin C infusion didn't just save my life, it made the fight more tolerable and it's easier to stay in that fight if you suffer less and know you're going in the right direction.
The one thing about all of this that baffles me is this: if low dose chemo and vitamin C infusion cures cancer and costs LESS, why aren't hospitals and INSURANCE companies so reluctant to go in the same direction? It saves the insurer money and most importantly, the patient's life.
I wouldn't be here today, enjoying my life and retirement, if it wasn't for Dr. Chen and his effective, cancer fighting treatments.
Glenn Gaither
In 1996 I was diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer. This is a very treatable form of cancer. I had a total thyroidectomy and followed up with RAI treatment. Everything was fine for 15 years. In May of 2011, I had a PET scan because of an increase in cancer markers. The scan showed a growth in my lower neck. In June 2011, I had surgery to remove the growth and had RAI treatment again. My treatable thyroid cancer now became recurrent papillary thyroid cancer, which is rare and very difficult to control.
In 2014, I had another PET/CT scan. It showed a mass in my upper chest area that my endocrinologist said needed to have surgery to remove. This is when I went to Seattle Integrative Cancer Center for a second opinion from Dr. Chen. Dr. Chen didn't recommend doing the invasive surgery. He felt that it wouldn't be possible to remove all the cancer cells with surgery. After looking at a few options, Dr. Chen chose a cancer drug Lenvima to block the cancer growth.
I have been going to Dr. Chen for 11 years and he is still keeping my untreatable cancer at bay. Dr. Chen believes in vitamins and diet to build up the immune system and drugs to kill the cancer cells or in my case, to block the growth. This is different from my other doctor's treatment of radiation and surgery. I would highly recommend Dr. Chen to anyone who needs cancer treatment. He is caring, compassionate and easy to talk to. Going to Dr. Chen turned out to be one of the best decisions I have made.
Paula
I found Dr. Chen through my naturopathic physician in Portland, Oregon, and I now make weekly trips to Renton, Washington, for my treatment with Dr. Chen's remarkable team. "Heroes Work Here," is a poster that greets you as you enter the treatment area, and it's true. My first oncologist had left our local clinic to take a job in Central Oregon - so he could enjoy skiing with family and friends - and I consider that a blessing in disguise. Even though his departure caused a gap in my chemo treatment, and a metastatic tumor he had overlooked grew large enough to actually break my tailbone, I am better for it. I have outlived his grim predictions, and I am now in the care of a truly committed and thoughtful team that has my best interests at heart.
My first doctor laughed at my wife when she asked if positive diet changes and informed use of supplements could support cancer treatment; he said that in his training at Yale he had never heard of integrative oncology, and in his opinion most vegan/vegetarian food was nothing more than junk food. Dr. Chen encourages a healthy diet, and he recommends supplements that will support the immune system and minimize side effects so I can continue with treatment until the cancer cells circulating in my body are at zero. Dr. Chen's use of intravenous Vitamin C immediately prior to my low-dose chemo cocktail has made all the difference. Not bad for a guy who was told he would be gone before the end of Summer 2024. I'm happy to be writing this in Winter 2025.
Jo Bell
This Doc saved my life after all the others told me I was dead in 6 months or less from triple negative breast cancer that was pretty advanced. Using a combination of conventional medicine, naturopathic medicine and high dose vitamin C, 9 years later I’m still alive! Unlike other clinics I’ve worked with where naturopathic is just a marketing gimmick to get us in the door, Chen really does work with the the ND for a complete and truly holistic approach to his patients care.
Dina Wislocker
I am alive and thriving today after twelve years with very advanced prostate cancer. Dr. Chen is at the cutting edge of research and practice for the treatment of advanced cancers. Twelve years ago, (when) I was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer and given less than a 4% chance to live more than two years. I am alive today, in large part due to the extraordinary care I received from Dr. Chen and Dr. Gignac. I am someone who likes to make decisions for myself. The kind of cancer treatment I selected, was one of the most important decisions I would ever make. After a great deal of research and seeking opinions from several cancer experts, I became a patient of Dr. Chen and Dr. Gignac. Their integrative approach of metronomic (low dose) chemotherapy in combination with naturopathic medicine has kept me alive! I am deeply impressed with Dr. Chen and Dr. Gignac. They are continuously researching and investigating emerging and promising treatment modalities. As a PhD researcher myself, that gives me a lot of confidence that they will explore every option on my behalf! They present options, but allow me to make decisions for myself. I see such patient empowerment as important to the healing process. The greatest gift of Dr. Chen and Dr. Gignac is that they never give up on anyone. I have watched patients with advanced cancers of many kinds, who have been given only weeks to live, come to their practice and receive a critically important message of hope. Some of my close friends are patients of Dr. Chen and Dr. Gignac who are managing their disease after a Stage IV advanced cancer diagnosis. I have known Dr. Chen and Dr. Gignac for more than a decade now. I highly recommend their practice!
Dr. Samuel Mahaffy
I was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic ovarian cancer and after three years of treatment with heavy chemotherapy. My Oncologist told me there was nothing more that he could offer to me. A friend referred me to Dr. Chen and I found that the integrative approach to cancer treatment he provided, like metronomic chemotherapy, proved to be more effective than my previous treatments and allowed me to continue working. I have had ten years of time with my husband, and my daughters, and my grand children that I am very grateful for. Dr Chen and his approach to cancer treatment has been the main reason that my cancer is under control today.
Bickley Barich
I was diagnosed with stage 4 esophageal cancer and was told that there was little that could be done…but they said I may want to get a second opinion. I realized that what they should have said was that should find a second option. After receiving treatment from Dr. Chen at Seattle Integrative Cancer Center for about three weeks, I was able to swallow with a drastic reduction in pain. As of today, I have been in remission for almost five years. I was told that this aggressive cancer would very likely come back. We have done numerous tests that have been looking for its return, but as of now I am still cancer free.
Randy Neatherlin
One year after being treated for prostate cancer I noticed a lump under my arm. A check up resulted in a diagnosis of mantle cell, non-hodgkin’s lymphoma, stage 4. The suggested treatment was a stem cell transplant. Knowing the physical and emotional stress that I had just gone through with the prostate cancer and a pulmonary embolism which happened two days after the cancer surgery, I rejected that course because I did not think I would survive the treatment. My wife and I began researching other options and the more meetings we went to, the worse the prognosis got. I was told that even if I got the stem cell transplant, this cancer would come back and gave me a 5 year life expectancy even if I had the transplant. I would rather spend quality time with my family rather than spend most of that time in the hospital. We decided to continue looking for a different option. That led us to Dr. Chen. He looked at cancer differently than others we spoke to and he explained metronomic dosing and building up the body’s own immune system, keeping me healthy and minimizing side effects with various supplements. From the moment we made the decision to follow Dr. Chen’s treatment I’ve been under the most incredible care from Dr. Chen and Dr. Gignac. Today I feel healthy, I’m mentally stable, I feel wonderful. If you are researching cancer treatments, please, make Dr. Chen and Seattle Integrative Cancer Center part of your research. They saved my life.
Bob & Lorena Suhayda
They (other doctor) told me that I had six months to possibly a year (to live)…and he told my husband to take her home and make her comfortable…and, ‘Take care of affairs’. That was 8 years (ago)…The first thing that I did was change my diet. I cut off all of the meat. I did juicing at home. I eat organic. If I eat a little meat, I buy 100% grass fed. I buy everything organic. That is the first thing I did, and I think that kind of helped me…and here (at Seattle Integrative Cancer Center) the doctors are just like family to me now.
Inok Robertson
After six months of a variety of abdominal symptoms, I learned that I had a tumor on the tail of the pancreas and had surgery to remove it in March of 2010. After the surgery, the doctors discovered that the tumor was an aggressive form of pancreatic cancer and told me that I had 7 to 12 months to live. It took me about 3 months to overcome the shock of this diagnosis. The day before I was scheduled to start further treatment, I kept an appointment with Dr. Chen and after looking at my records, he told me that “we can do better” than the hospital prognosis. I needed someone to tell me that one, you’re not dead yet, and two, you’ve still got a reason to believe that you can live well. He said Seattle Integrative Cancer Center would work with me on that and bring to bear a whole range of interventions. I made an appointment with Dr. Chen for the next day and cancelled my other treatment appointment. I have been in remission for 6 years at this point and I credit Dr. Chen and his whole philosophy of treatment as to why I’m still here living a very active and productive life.
Ted Brackman
After experiencing an unusual degree of tiredness, I was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer in February of 2016. A former customer of mine told me of his wife’s diagnosis with lymphoma in 2014, and that she was cured in 2015. When I asked him how, he referred me to Dr. Chen. After some further examinations, I started metronomic chemotherapy in March. Every four weeks, tumor marker numbers are taken. When I started my number was at 93. Four weeks later it was 39, four weeks later it was 14.8 and four weeks later it was less than 3. The markers remained low for the next two tests. Dr Chen said that the normal range for the tumor markers goes up to 35, so I have stage 4 pancreatic cancer that is basically in remission after 4 months. I can’t tell you how lucky I feel to have found Dr. Chen. I would like as many people as possible to have the chance for recovery that I have had.
Inger Bjerge
I was diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer in 2009. After surgery and other treatments failed I was given 2 to 6 months to live and told to, “go home and get my affairs in order”. After several weeks, my wife and youngest daughter asked if I would go to a doctor if they made an appointment for me. To please them, I went. The first time I met with Dr. Chen, I was surprised that he never said anything about me dying. He did tell me my how my cancer had progressed and scheduled me to return for treatment. Thirty six treatments later, my cancer was gone. I return once a month for maintenance treatments and have been in remission for almost 4 years. I can’t recommend Dr. Chen enough. He sure saved my life
Ted Jenkins
I have been a patient of Dr Chen’s for 10 1/2 years. He has treated me successfully through 2 bouts of stage 4 breast cancer. This second time I’ve been in remission for about 3 1/2 years. I’m a statistical wonder. The unique approach of Dr Chen, coupled with the expertise of Dr Gignac, naturopath has given me victory over cancer and a quality life. Even when I was going through chemo, I didn’t feel too bad because of gentle and effective approach Dr Chen uses. It’s like being treated in a boutique with caring and friendly staff.
Susan Durr
I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Prostate cancer and I was told that if I did nothing about it, I had 6 to 12 months to live. Fortunately, I was referred to Dr. Chen before receiving any other treatments. I knew my best chance was to have faith in the Doctor that has spent his life working with the individual patient and not just saying, “you have this type of cancer and this is how we’re going to treat you”. My medication was never exactly the same for any visit and Dr. Chen’s ability to adjust the medication to best suit my body’s condition led to my PSA number dropping from over a thousand (normal is 4) down to 0.1. “I’m really blessed that they sent me to this place. Otherwise, I think I’d be gone
Duane Passmore
I was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer, stage 4 in September 2017. The first doctor I saw wanted me to do the full Chemotherapy regimen and I said no. I searched online for natural treatments or something like that, that would work and somebody that would take me. Dr Chen made it clear that he would not only take my case, but that, “we can do this”. All the staff are very positive, and the patients become friends which creates a near party atmosphere for those receiving treatments. Within a few weeks my tumor started shrinking. I tell everyone, that if they know anyone with cancer, they have to go to Dr Chen, because he will fix them.
Susan Jankord
I was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer in 2002 and told I had 9 months to live and to go home and get my affairs in order. I made an appointment for treatment and was assigned to Dr. Chen. I didn’t know him or anything about him, but I’ve been with him for the past 16 years. I didn’t understand all the terminology he was describing to me, but what I do know is that I was never sick, I never had nausea, vomiting or any discomfort and that was a blessing. Treatments have changed, but I did exactly what he wanted me to do and that’s how I survived all these years.
Ellen Chung
After battling a cold that would not go away and begging doctors, for months, to take x-rays and CT scans, I was told in November of 2016 that I had Stage 4 lung cancer. I was told that I needed to, “relax in my cancer”, and to let the team of care givers help me figure out how to, “comfortably die”. My Mom passed away from the same type of cancer and it is a genetic mutation that started in my lungs and moved to my brain. When I first met Dr. Chen, I asked him, “Will you help me live?” To which he compassionately responded, “Yes, I have hope for you”. That hope encouraged me, knowing that I have a team of people that want to help me live, along with other patients that are rooting for each other too. My current numbers indicate that there is no cancer anywhere in my body. Don’t lose hope for your loved ones that are fighting with cancer. It will carry them through.
Jennifer Sabounchi
Dr. Chen has been my oncologist for 4 years now. I am into my 6th year of Stage 4 hormone positive, her2 negative breast cancer. After being treated by 5 other oncologists in the U.S. Dr. Chen has not only found treatments that the other doctors have not considered but were unable to administer due to guidelines imposed upon them. Since the center is integrative, a variety of treatments are utilized to increase the immune system, protect the body during chemotherapy and increase your quality of life. Dr. Chen has not only extended my life but has saved my life a few times now. He is an amazing doctor with compassion for human life and I am eternally grateful!
Joyce Mccreary
Best open minded doctor I have ever had. Thank God he stayed in the area. He puts his patients health and well being at the front. He takes time to explain things well. I have never felt like just a number in his day. Thank you Dr. Chen
Judy Thocer
Dr. Chen is the most creative out of the box oncologist anyone could hope for. He is diligent and he is on top of my cancer. I have full confidence in him because he is a master at diagnosing and treating any cancer. He has solved difficult cancers that other doctors could not solve, including pancreatic cancer. I have referred others to him with great results. I highly recommend him!
Dr. Roger Libby
Dr. Chen is one of my true life heroes and I am so grateful he is my physician. He thinks out of the box and treats cancer metronomically with chemotherapy and works to build up the immune system. He works with naturopath oncologists and treats the whole person, not just a diagnosis. God bless this true physician healer, for he is a blessing to all of us, his patients.
Sheila Herron
Dr Chen is a very companionate doctor. He knows his field so well. I appreciate his knowledge and skill. He is awesome.
Robert Clairmont
Five years ago, when I was diagnosed with stage 3 invasive carcinoma with lymphatic involvement, my husband and I researched lived in Central California. We researched cancer treatment centers and cancer care practitioners throughout the West Coast. We concluded that Dr. Chen provided the best and most effective treatment available. We flew from Central California to Seattle for 24 weeks to be treated by Dr. Chen. The result was that I was cancer-free for 5 years. Now that I’ve been diagnosed with a different type of aggressive cancer, we have moved to Seattle to be treated by Dr. Chen. He offers hope and effective care for all kinds of patients with all types of cancer.
Patricia Mitchell
My wife and I flew to Seattle from Central California every week for 24 weeks to be treated by Dr. Chen. We did extensive research before concluding that Dr. Chen was providing the most effective cancer treatment in the Western U.S. We actually moved to the Seattle area 1-1/2 years ago to be closer to the level of care provided by Dr. Chen and his staff.
Julian Mitchell
Dr Chen was able to save my life when previous doctors said there was no hope, and that I had only 3 months to live even with interventions. We are thankful for his experience and patient CARE!
Luanne Cook
After being told to continue hormone therapy for four months before starting chemotherapy my wife and I decided to seek a second opinion. We live in a small town in Idaho so coming to Tukwila for treatment is a considerable distance. After finding Dr. Chen on the Internet, we called for an appointment, and we seen promptly for a consult with both he and Dr. Gignac who is a Naturopath. The result was I started chemotherapy the very next week for a 12 week regimin. My progress was carefully monitored, and significant cancer cells were killed. I am doing very well, I owe this to both doctors. I am very satisfied with the professionalism of Dr. Chen and plan on continuing my treatment with him.
Carl Pixley
The best Cancer practice ever. Last week in six sites we had over 30 years longevity when we all have been giving only a short time to live. The Best.
Gig Larson