It started with a consistent dry cough in February 2022. Encar Kazemi of Cumming said she didn’t attribute it to anything more than lingering effects from a recent cold. But by May, the cough became more severe, and “out of nowhere, a lump popped up on the left side of my neck.”
She saw her family doctor, who prescribed antibiotics and prednisone. The cough persisted. On June 1, 2022, she met with nurse practitioner Sarah Wallace.
“Sarah looked at my lump and ordered a CT scan immediately,” Encar recalled. Soon after, she received a call from her doctor’s office with the results.
“The diagnosis was lymphadenopathy. My world felt like it had stopped.”
A PET scan on June 15 was followed by an excisional biopsy on June 17.
“The results confirmed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL),” Encar said. “I was devastated with my diagnosis.”
In the days after, Encar leaned on her niece, Dr. Ginna Laport, a former professor of blood and marrow transplantation at Stanford.
“Ginna guided me every single step of the way, and even though she is in California, she kept constant tabs on my treatment and progress, and her extensive knowledge eased me along the way.”
Encar was referred to Dr. Paul Gill of Atlanta Cancer Care, affiliated with Northside Hospital Cancer Institute.
“Dr. Gill took as much time as I needed to explain my diagnosis and upcoming treatment and what to expect,” Encar said.
On June 29, she had a port inserted, and the next day began R-CHOP chemotherapy — six sessions scheduled every three weeks.
“The lump in my neck significantly reduced in size just days after my first infusion, and besides the expected side effects from R-CHOP, I started feeling better with less pain.”
But the journey was far from over. A week into treatment, Encar developed a fever and was admitted to the ER.
“It ended up that I had contracted pseudomonas, an infection in the bloodstream, possibly during my port insertion,” she said. “I had to have my port removed and a PICC line inserted so that I could continue on schedule with my chemotherapy.”
After six sessions, Encar hoped it was the end of her cancer journey. However, the results showed the DLBCL was still present.
“I remember feeling absolutely devastated, truly believing my life was over,” Encar added. “But then, a new possibility emerged: CAR T-cell therapy with recent FDA approval. This was a turning point, a new path forward that offered renewed hope.”
On Nov. 17, 2022, she met with Dr. Scott Solomon at Northside Hospital’s Blood Cancer Program and The Blood & Marrow Transplant Group of Georgia.
“Dr. Solomon explained the CAR-T process as well as the risks and possible side effects.”
The process began with cell harvesting on Dec. 1, followed by port placement, bridging chemotherapy, and then three days of lymphodepleting chemotherapy in late January. On Jan. 30, 2023, Encar received her YESCARTA® CAR-T infusion.
“My CAR-T treatment began at the end of January 2023, and I can’t speak highly enough of Dr. Solomon and the entire bone marrow transplant team. They didn’t just provide medical care; they gave me a lifeline and renewed my belief in a future and genuinely cared about me.”
There were setbacks — fevers, ER visits, and daily clinical monitoring — but the care team carried her through. She especially remembers “the compassionate and knowledgeable BMT nurses on the infusion floor, especially Sam and Juan.”
Her recovery was measured by milestone scans: day 30, day 100, six months, one year, 18 months and two years.
“This journey has been incredibly difficult, not just for me but for my family,” Encar said. The unwavering prayers and support from my family and friends near and far, especially my church community, were invaluable – they truly carried me through the darkest days.”
In January 2025, Encar received news she had prayed for.
“My latest PET scan shows that I remain cancer-free. I am a survivor.”
That milestone has opened new doors.
“I’ve been able to travel again with my family, creating new memories that I cherish,” Encar said. “One of the most joyous moments recently was seeing my grandson, Connor, graduate high school, then see him off to the U.S. Air Force Academy for college. Witnessing his achievement just three years after he shaved my head after my first round of chemo is an indescribable gift.”
Travel has become part of her healing.
“I’ve also recently traveled to Peru and visited one of the great wonders of the world, Machu Picchu. I play pickleball several times per week.”
Encar’s immune system is still recovering. She continues to receive IVIG infusions. But through it all, faith has remained her anchor.
“My journey has taught me the profound importance of prayers and unwavering faith in God’s mercy. These were truly the keys to my survival and recovery.”
Learn more about the Blood Cancer Program at Northside Hospital Cancer Institute.
*The health story shared here is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Patients should consult with their own physician before making medical decisions.
