Brain Cancer Patient Halted US Clinical Trial
A fundraising shortfall has forced a patient to cancel a proposed clinical trial in Ohio and pivot to private care.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Cancer
Jaimee Sharp, 28, has cancelled her participation in a US clinical trial for an incurable brain tumour after failing to meet a £320,000 fundraising goal. She has instead redirected £254,519 in raised funds toward alternative private treatment.
Why it matters
The decision underscores the significant financial hurdles patients face when pursuing experimental care outside of national health systems. Sharp was unable to bridge the £66,000 shortfall required for the two-year treatment programme.
A patient-led fundraising campaign reached £254,519 toward a £320,000 goal for a two-year clinical trial in the United States. It remains unknown how alternative private treatment protocols will compare to the standard of care for this incurable diagnosis.
The players
Jaimee Sharp
A 28-year-old patient diagnosed with an incurable brain tumour who recently sought international clinical intervention.
NHS
The publicly funded healthcare system in the United Kingdom that provides standard cancer care but does not routinely cover specific hyperthermia treatments.
The details
Hyperthermia treatment uses heat to damage or kill cancer cells, which researchers believe makes the cells more vulnerable to the effects of chemotherapy. Because this specific treatment is not routinely available on the NHS in the United Kingdom, Sharp is utilizing the remaining funds to cover costs for private care alongside her ongoing chemotherapy regimen.
Timeline
October 8, 2026: Official announcement regarding the cancellation of the clinical trial.
Health Landscape
The cancellation of the TarGet-D clinical trial reflects the broader difficulty patients face in securing funding for trials outside their home health systems. This case highlights the gap between emerging experimental therapies and the standard care models currently provided by public health services.
Patients exploring experimental trials should consult with their oncology team to understand the full financial scope and insurance coverage requirements before starting a fundraising effort. Any significant changes to your treatment plan or travel for care are conversations that should be prioritized with your primary physician.
The takeaway
Navigating the costs of experimental, international care requires a clear understanding of both clinical requirements and potential financial gaps. Patients should discuss all alternative treatment options, such as hyperthermia, with their oncologist to determine if they are appropriate for their prognosis.
Further reading
For more on the development of new treatments, visit our Cancer section.
