Patient Profile:
- Name: Niculcea
- Age: 62
- From: Romania
- Destination: Istanbul, Turkey
- Procedure: Lutetium-177 therapy
- Clinic: Memorial Şişli Hospital
Cancer treatment is an emotional and physically demanding journey. With countless cancer patient stories, particularly cancer survivors stories shared globally, the importance of choosing a trusted facility with high success rates cannot be overstated. Looking for deeply personal prostate cancer stories, patients are seeking examples of reliable, effective, and compassionate care that aligns with their medical needs and financial constraints.
Exploring cancer diagnosis stories or reading blogs of cancer patients can provide vital insights and emotional support for those navigating their cancer journey. Each patient’s story is unique, and finding the right treatment plan is key to overcoming the hurdles of this challenging path.
Table of Contents
The Journey to Finding Lutetium-177 Therapy
Niculcea’s cancer treatment journey had been a long and trying one. His diagnosis of metastatic prostate cancer roughly 3 years ago marked the beginning of an ongoing battle, as PSA levels continued to rise despite treatments. By the time hormone therapy for prostate cancer stopped working, Niculcea was ready to seek a new approach.
When the idea of Lutetium-177 therapy emerged, it offered a new glimmer of hope. The therapy was different from what he had tried before and promised a more targeted approach. As a cancer survivor, Niculcea felt that this could be his chance for a real breakthrough.
“After a long treatment journey, we were searching for new options — effective, clear, and reliable.”
Why Niculcea Chose Memorial Şişli Hospital
After reaching out to Bookimed, Niculcea explored several treatment options, including those in Austria and Turkey. Ultimately, Bookimed’s team helped him choose Memorial Şişli Hospital in Istanbul, Turkey, a leading medical center known for its prostate cancer treatment success stories.
For Niculcea, Memorial Şişli’s reputation in oncology and its extensive experience with Lutetium-177 therapy were reassuring. It wasn’t just about the treatment; it was about feeling safe, supported, and confident that he was in the right hands.
“Bookimed made everything easier: they helped us choose Memorial Şişli Hospital, arranged the process, and supported us through the first Lutetium session.”
Memorial Şişli Hospital is a renowned private medical center in Istanbul, Turkey, specializing in oncology, organ transplants, neurosurgery, and more. Established in 2000, it is internationally accredited by Joint Commission International (JCI) and ISO 15189. The hospital treats over 1.6 million patients annually, with a strong focus on advanced technology, such as TrueBeam STx radiotherapy and Da Vinci robotic surgery.
Memorial Şişli Hospital in Istanbul is one of Turkey’s leading multidisciplinary medical centers, operating on a 53,000 m² area with 252 beds, 13 operating rooms, and advanced intensive care units. Opened in 2000, it became the first hospital in Turkey and the 21st worldwide to earn Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation, confirming world-class standards.
The hospital is recognized for its expertise in oncology, organ and bone marrow transplantation (90% organ transplant success rate), IVF, neurosurgery, bariatric surgery, robotic surgery, and genetics. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and specialized centers, Memorial Şişli attracts patients from 167 countries each year, combining top-level medical care with Istanbul’s unique cultural and travel opportunities.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
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| Lutetium-177 therapy | $6250 - $6500 |
Meet the Doctor: Prof. Dr. Cuneyt Turkmen
At Memorial Şişli Hospital, Prof. Dr. Cuneyt Turkmen was the expert guiding Niculcea through the Lutetium-177 therapy journey. With over 30 years of experience in nuclear medicine, Dr. Turkmen is one of the top specialists in targeted radionuclide therapy for various cancers, including prostate cancer.
His knowledge and skill in the field are reflected in the cancer survivor success stories of his past patients on the website.
Lutetium-177 Therapy Plan and What to Expect
The first step in Niculcea’s treatment was a PSMA PET scan to ensure the therapy was targeted accurately to his condition. Based on his scan results, Prof. Dr. Turkmen recommended Lutetium-177 therapy to target the metastases in his prostate. The treatment plan included four cycles of therapy, each spaced six weeks apart.
Here’s a glimpse of what the plan involved:
Consultation with Prof. Dr. Cuneyt Turkmen to review medical history and discuss the treatment approach.
PSMA PET scan to fine-tune the therapy based on precise imaging.
Lutetium-177 therapy sessions are divided into four cycles to effectively target cancer cells.
Comprehensive follow-ups to monitor progress, including blood tests and additional imaging as needed.
“Now we’re just resting. The doctors did a follow-up CT, explained everything, and we’re heading home with peace of mind.”
Treatment and Emotional Support
When Niculcea arrived at Memorial Şişli Hospital, the process was smooth, and the hospital team provided excellent emotional support during the Lutetium-177 therapy. Though the journey felt daunting, Niculcea felt reassured by the compassionate care he received.
Lutetium-177 therapy was administered with care, and the team at Memorial Şişli ensured that every step was followed with precision. After his first treatment session, Niculcea felt confident and supported, knowing that he was receiving cutting-edge care.
“In two weeks, we’ll send blood tests and discuss the next session.”
Lutetium-177 Therapy Results: Hope for the Future
Though Niculcea’s treatment is ongoing, the follow-up CT scans are giving him hope for the future. The Lutetium-177 therapy is showing signs of effectiveness, and Niculcea remains optimistic. As a cancer survivor, he knows that every step forward is a victory, and the results of the therapy continue to bring hope for a brighter future.
“It’s a tough path — but we’re not walking it alone. And that means everything.”
Why Niculcea Recommends Bookimed
For Niculcea, Bookimed was more than just a medical platform—it was a partner. From the moment he reached out, Bookimed provided personalized recommendations, connected him with the right clinic, and made sure every step of his journey was supported. Many patients turn to cancer miracle stories like this one for hope and inspiration during their treatment journey. Bookimed is also ready to offer them free help.
“Huge thanks to Bookimed and my lovely Turkish host for all the support.”
With Bookimed, Niculcea received:
💚 Personalized assistance in choosing the best treatment options for prostate cancer.
💚 Seamless coordination for travel, appointments, and communication.
💚 Expert recommendations and access to top-rated clinics like Memorial Şişli Hospital.
💚 Ongoing support throughout the treatment process, from start to finish.
If you’re looking for a reliable partner in your cancer treatment journey, Bookimed can connect you to trusted, world-class clinics like Memorial Şişli Hospital.