Chewing on cough drops didn’t solve Ron Sinn’s aggressive coughing. Needing answers, Ron and his wife, Marcia, turned to Avera in late 2023.
His physician assistant ordered a CT scan of his throat, followed by an endoscopy performed by Kristen Coffroth, MD, an Avera ear, nose and throat surgeon Sioux Falls, SD. The results? Ron had laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma.
This was just the start of Ron’s brave, long journey alongside his wife, Coffroth and a multidisciplinary Avera team. His initial treatment included chemoradiation, followed by a salvage laryngectomy to remove his larynx and vocal cords when the cancer returned and invaded his voice box.
When the aggressive cancer came back in 2025, it was time to try something different.
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First Candidate for Clinical Trial in the U.S.
In early 2025, Ron was the first patient in the United States to be treated through a clinical trial that applies photoimmunotherapy in tandem with an immunotherapy medication.
A day before the minimally invasive operation, the patient is given a light sensitive chemical via IV infusion which attaches to cancer cells. The next day, the surgeon applies photoimmunotherapy infrared light. In this process, a light-absorbing chemical transfers energy to other molecules, causing chemical reactions. Administered to the cancer site, this “energized” wavelength destroys the targeted cells.
Pembrolizumab is an immunotherapy injection that supports the immune system. It activates the immune system, putting it on high alert to identify and attack diseases like cancer. The medicine can be used in treatment-oriented goals like this, or by itself for palliative purposes.
“The clinical trial saved his life,” said Coffroth. “It’s revolutionary in my mind, opening up a great option for patients without options.”
The medical research institution chose Avera as the first site in the U.S. to implement this trial. With our modest size, and deep immersion into research, Avera proves we’re a nimbler institution to get patients into clinical trials much faster than bigger, national universities.
In addition, Coffroth gives credit to ear, nose and throat colleague, W. Chad Spanos, MD, for advocating that this trial come to Avera through the Avera Research Institute.
Why Cancer Clinical Trials Are an Important Option
Clinical trials are often utilized when patients are running out of traditional treatment options.
“Some patients are apprehensive about trying clinical trials when they learn about the potential benefits and side effects,” said Coffroth. “Also, patients don’t want to feel like they’re being experimented on.”
It’s anything but. These treatment avenues are backed with long-standing research and theory — awaiting patients and cancer teams who are looking for next steps and applications for their care. And according to Coffroth, “Ron’s bravery in choosing a clinical trial will eventually open doors in treatment to save countless lives in the future.”
The Sinns almost turned down the opportunity, but the idea of helping others inspired them to move forward. Another interesting, miraculous note regarding Ron’s setbacks and the release of the clinical trial he’d be participating in — “If Ron didn’t have his cancer recurrence at this particular time, he might’ve not had the clinical trial opportunity,” said Coffroth. “He would not be here today.”
Facing the Long Journey of Cancer
Facing cancer is a long, emotional journey of victories, setbacks and new experiences. At Avera, Ron and Marcia were supported by a multidisciplinary team.
To help heal his neck surgery, Ron underwent sessions in the Avera McKennan’s hyperbaric chamber, which delivers pure oxygen to damaged tissue. The Avera team even put tubes inside his ears to alleviate any pressure.
“It did wonders for Ron’s healing,” said Marcia. “It helped healing in his throat, inside and out.”
A Full-Fledged Cancer Team at Every Turn
After hospitalization, Marcia took on a new role of physically caregiving and helping his wounds heal.
The couple were grateful for the 24/7 services provided by Avera Cancer Institute Navigation Center. No matter if they were in the hospital or their home, they found themselves continually supported in person or over the phone regarding their questions about care, symptoms and next steps.
“We just love them!” said Marcia. “All those different doctors, wound care, nurses — they came in to help Ron.”
