We sit down with Dr. Gary Simmons and Fred Varewyck to explain CAR T cell therapy for multiple myeloma and what it can mean for deeper remission and real time away from treatment. Dr. Gary Simmons unpacks how CAR T works, why it’s a major advancement in blood cancer care, and what “treatment-free time” can look like when it succeeds.

We also get specific about the lived experience. Fred walks through diagnosis, stem cell transplant, relapse, and the mindset that helped him say yes when CAR T finally became possible. Dr. Simmons explains the practical timeline, including the four-to-six-week manufacturing window, and why some patients need urgent “bridge” treatment first. Then we dive into what makes Virginia Oncology Associates’ outpatient CAR T model so meaningful: infusion at the clinic, daily check-ins, and recovery at home rather than hospitalization.

The other thread running through everything is support and trustworthy information. We talk about why “Google medicine” can push patients away from the right care, why you should speak with clinicians who specialize in cellular therapy, and how caregivers make appointments easier for patients by taking notes or recording guidance. Fred shares community resources that help patients feel less alone (check out the show notes).

If you found this helpful, subscribe, share the episode with someone navigating multiple myeloma, and leave a review so more patients and caregivers can find these conversations.

Dr. Gary L. Simmons is a recognized national leader in the advancement of community-based oncology. Within the US Oncology Network, he has been instrumental in bridging the gap between academic research and community access, with a specific clinical focus on CAR T-Cell Therapy and its evolving role in patient care, the treatment of complex Hematologic malignancies, and expanding the reach of advanced cellular therapies beyond the traditional university hospital setting.

Resources:

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/oncology/articles/10.3389/fonc.2026.1712533/full

https://www.polygonhealth.co/map

https://www.facebook.com/groups/239866928407935

Southeastern Virginia (SEVA) Multiple Myeloma Support Group. Email Brenda Riggs or Stephanie Kailos at seva@imfsupport.org

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Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.