A diagnosis of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is among the most feared in oncology. Yet stories of long-term survival, though rare, offer a powerful counterpoint to the statistics. David Fitting, now in his early thirties, has lived with GBM for more than two decades – a duration that places him among the longest-surviving patients in the United States. His journey, alongside the work of organisations such as the Glioblastoma Research Organisation, illustrates how research, advocacy and community support intersect.
This article examines Fitting’s medical history, the broader question of whether anyone survives glioblastoma, and what the ‘Together’ movement means for patients and families. All facts are drawn from published sources, including institutional updates, survivor interviews and medical literature.
Who is David Fitting? A 20-Year Glioblastoma Survivor Story
David Fitting was diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme at age 10, on 6 May 2003, after headaches led to imaging that revealed a tumour in his right temporal lobe. Doctors gave him a prognosis of 12 weeks to nine months. He underwent surgery, radiation and chemotherapy with Temodar (temozolomide). A relapse in May 2004 added gliosarcoma to his diagnosis. He was then treated at Duke University with an experimental cocktail of CPT-11 (irinotecan) and tamoxifen for about two years. Treatment ended in September 2006, and a clear MRI the following month confirmed remission.
In 2020, Fitting was diagnosed with osteosarcoma and underwent a mandibulectomy. He has been in remission again since February 2020. Multiple sources now describe him as a three-time cancer survivor and as thriving, not merely surviving. Some reports note mild lingering side effects; others mention full paralysis of the left side of his face after surgery.
- 20-Year Survivor: David Fitting, diagnosed 2003, thriving in 2026
- Research Movement: gbmresearch.org – ‘Together we will find a cure’
- Community Stories: Carmen Rice, Reddit survivors, Instagram updates
- Current Prognosis: Median survival 12‑15 months; rare long‑term survivors exist
- Long-term glioblastoma survival, though rare, is documented and offers hope.
- Personal stories like David Fitting’s help destigmatise the diagnosis and highlight the role of clinical trials.
- The ‘Together’ movement symbolises patient-centred research collaboration.
- Online communities (Reddit, Instagram) provide real-time support and anecdotal evidence.
- Some long-term survivors face significant side effects – for example, facial paralysis after surgery.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Diagnosis Year (David Fitting) | 2003 |
| Survival Duration | 20+ years (as of 2026) |
| Organization | Glioblastoma Research Organization (gbmresearch.org) |
| Carmen Rice | Separate survivor case (details emerging) |
| Median Survival (GBM) | 12‑15 months |
| Long‑term survivors (5+ years) | Less than 5% of patients |
Has Anyone Survived Glioblastoma Multiforme?
Yes. Documented cases of long-term survival exist, and David Fitting is one of the most prominent examples. The American Brain Tumor Association notes that while GBM is the most aggressive primary brain tumour, a small fraction of patients live five years or longer. The National Cancer Institute confirms that median survival remains around 15 months, but outliers are real.
What is the survival rate for glioblastoma?
Population studies consistently place five-year survival below 5%. For paediatric patients, outcomes can be slightly better, but still grave. Fitting’s case is exceptional precisely because it defies these odds.
Is glioblastoma always fatal?
Glioblastoma is considered incurable with current therapies, and the majority of patients die from the disease. However, the existence of long-term survivors – such as those highlighted in PubMed indexed case reports – shows that “always fatal” is not the same as “always immediately fatal.” Remissions lasting years have been recorded.
The 5‑year survival rate for glioblastoma is less than 5%. David Fitting’s 22‑year survival places him in an extremely rare cohort. Statistical averages should not be interpreted as individual destiny, but they reflect the aggressive nature of the tumour.
Carmen Rice and Other Glioblastoma Survivor Stories
Carmen Rice is mentioned in the context of glioblastoma awareness, but her full medical details are not publicly verified through the sources reviewed here. The Glioblastoma Research Organisation has featured her alongside David Fitting in its survivor campaigns. On social media and community forums, many individuals share their own journeys.
Where can I find glioblastoma survivor stories on Reddit?
The r/glioblastoma subreddit is an active community where patients, families and survivors post updates, ask questions and offer support. These stories are anecdotal and not medically verified, but they provide emotional solidarity and practical advice.
What common factors do long‑term survivors share?
Research is ongoing. Factors that may contribute include: younger age at diagnosis, complete surgical resection, response to chemotherapy, and access to clinical trials. Fitting received experimental therapy at Duke; other survivors also often took part in trials. Genetic markers like MGMT promoter methylation are also associated with better outcomes. For more on the underlying disease, read our guide on Understanding Glioblastoma: Symptoms and Diagnosis.
Instagram accounts of advocacy groups such as @glioblastomaresearch regularly share survivor features. David Fitting’s own updates appear on Instagram. Reddit offers raw, unfiltered patient narratives.
How Long Can You Live with Glioblastoma? Prognosis and Treatment Advances
Median survival remains 12‑15 months, but treatment advances are slowly improving outcomes. The introduction of temozolomide in the 2000s added months for many patients. More recently, tumour‑treating fields (Optune), immunotherapy and targeted agents are being tested in clinical trials.
What treatments contributed to David Fitting’s long survival?
Fitting underwent surgery, radiation, temozolomide, and later an experimental regimen of CPT-11 and tamoxifen. It is impossible to attribute his outcome to a single factor; the combination of aggressive initial therapy, recurrence treatment, and his young age likely played roles.
What is the prognosis for glioblastoma in 2025?
Prognosis remains poor overall. The American Brain Tumor Association stresses that despite research progress, GBM is still considered incurable. Clinical trial enrollment is encouraged for eligible patients. For a look at emerging therapies, see our piece on Latest Glioblastoma Treatment Advances in 2025.
Long‑term survival stories are extraordinary exceptions. They offer hope but should not be mistaken for the typical course. Every patient’s situation is unique, and treatment decisions must be made with a medical team.
How did David Fitting’s treatment journey unfold over two decades?
- 6 May 2003 – Diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme at age 10.
- 2003 – Undergoes surgery, radiation and temozolomide.
- May 2004 – Relapse; diagnosis revised to glioblastoma and gliosarcoma.
- 2004–2006 – Experimental therapy at Duke with CPT-11 and tamoxifen.
- September 2006 – Completes treatment; clear MRI in October.
- 2020 – Diagnosed with osteosarcoma; undergoes mandibulectomy.
- February 2020 – Enters remission again.
- 2026 – Celebrated as a 22‑year survivor; featured by Duke and gbmresearch.org.
What is known and what remains uncertain about long‑term GBM survival?
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| Glioblastoma multiforme is an aggressive brain cancer with a poor prognosis. | The exact reasons for exceptional survival are not fully understood (genetic, treatment, lifestyle). |
| David Fitting has survived for over 20 years, confirmed by Duke Medical Center and gbmresearch.org. | Carmen Rice’s full medical details are not publicly verified through the sources used here. |
| The ‘Together’ campaign is run by a legitimate research organisation (gbmresearch.org). | Reddit survivor stories may lack medical verification. |
How does glioblastoma compare to other brain cancers?
Glioblastoma is a Grade IV astrocytoma, the most aggressive form of glioma. Unlike lower‑grade gliomas, GBM grows rapidly, invades surrounding brain tissue, and almost always recurs after initial treatment. Targeted therapies and immunotherapies are under investigation, but no cure exists. The Glioblastoma Research Organisation (gbmresearch.org) funds trials and advocates for increased research funding. The ‘Together’ movement is part of this effort, aiming to accelerate progress through collaboration and patient involvement.
Balancing hope with realism is crucial. Survivor stories like David Fitting’s inspire, but they should be presented alongside clear statistics so patients and families can make informed decisions.
What do the sources say about glioblastoma survival?
“20 Years Later, Glioblastoma Brain Cancer Survivor …” – gbmresearch.org headline
“Together we will find a cure.” – Glioblastoma Research Organisation mission statement
The gbmresearch.org article on David Fitting is a primary source for his story. Duke’s Tisch Brain Tumor Center also published David Fitting’s journey of survival and resilience. National statistics are drawn from the National Cancer Institute and the American Brain Tumor Association.
What is the takeaway for glioblastoma patients and families?
Glioblastoma remains a devastating diagnosis, but long‑term survivors like David Fitting demonstrate that extraordinary outcomes are possible. The road to better treatments runs through research and community support. For those seeking information or connection, the Glioblastoma Research Organisation (gbmresearch.org) offers resources and a way to join the ‘Together’ movement.
Frequently asked questions about glioblastoma
What is glioblastoma multiforme?
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive type of brain cancer, arising from glial cells. It is classified as a Grade IV astrocytoma.
How common is long‑term survival with glioblastoma?
Long‑term survival (5+ years) is very rare – less than 5% of patients. Cases like David Fitting are exceptional.
Where can I find David Fitting on Instagram?
Search for ‘David Fitting’ on Instagram; exact handle not confirmed in inputs but linked via gbmresearch.org.
What treatments did David Fitting receive?
He received surgery, radiation, temozolomide, and later an experimental cocktail of CPT-11 (irinotecan) and tamoxifen.
Is ‘Together 2000’ movie related to glioblastoma?
No, ‘Together 2000’ is a Swedish film unrelated to brain cancer. The ‘Together’ in this article refers to the glioblastoma research movement.
What is the median survival for glioblastoma?
The median survival is about 12–15 months from diagnosis, though some patients live longer.
Are there any known causes of glioblastoma?
Most cases are sporadic with no identifiable cause. Rare genetic syndromes increase risk, but the majority have no clear trigger.
Can glioblastoma be cured?
Currently, glioblastoma is considered incurable. However, some patients achieve long‑term remission, which is not the same as a cure.
How can I support glioblastoma research?
Donate to organisations like the Glioblastoma Research Organisation, participate in awareness campaigns, or consider clinical trial participation if eligible.
What is the ‘Together’ movement?
The ‘Together’ movement is a patient‑centred research collaboration led by gbmresearch.org, aiming to unite survivors, doctors and researchers to find a cure.
Understanding Glioblastoma: Symptoms and Diagnosis | Latest Glioblastoma Treatment Advances in 2025
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Toby Marsh is Senior Reporter at Castradar.uk, covering film and TV stories across the UK.