Hi Friends,
I have been wondering how best to use my expertise and skills to be of service during the COVID-19 situation, and brainstorming ways to put my experience to good use in a new job.
Offering yoga online has been very fulfilling, and it has allowed me to contribute to keeping a small business running that had to close acupuncture operations for 2.5 months. I love getting to know my students better and the Sunday (Re)treats have been my favorite.
It has also occurred to me that clinical trials are running for treatments and for vaccines to help save lives and stop the spread of this infection. I have 12+ years of experience as a clinical researcher, and I am good at explaining technical concepts to non-scientists in a way that makes sense. Mission taking shape…
I have noticed that Universities have difficulty explaining clinical trials to potential participants in ways they understand. Many of their resources are text-heavy and use a lot of technical terms. It is a chronic problem for the informed consent process as well, which is required before volunteering to participate in a trial.
In service to helping people understand which trials might be the best fit, I am considering a series on de-mystifying the clinical trial process. It may be a matter of curating the best content that is available and sharing it. I am strongly committed to advocating for participants who may be confused and want clarification of their questions.
The ACRP (Association of Clinical Research Professionals) explains that with the pandemic looming large at hospitals, many trial sites are not recruiting participants and face the danger of not completing their enrollments. This could have devastating effects on the development of other life-saving therapies outside of this virus.
My questions are these:
- Have you ever thought about volunteering for a clinical trial?
- What are your reservations about participating in a trial?
For now, since the biggest question people seem to have for the news media on vaccines and trials is: why will this take so long? I am posting an info-graphic from St. Luke’s which nicely summarizes the process. I’ll be back later this week or next to follow further in bite-sized stories if there is interest in this topic.
Stay well and safe. Wash your hands. Wear your mask. Be kind.
cristy@meximinnesotana.com
mexi minnesotana 
I’ve never considered taking part in a clinical trial, probably due to fear of the unknown. I’m definitely interested in this topic, Cristy, since it really is THE topic to make life more normal again!
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Thanks for the feedback, Becky! This is encouraging to me. Given the face that all of us have either our own health vulnerabilities, or loved ones with risk factors, I think more of us are asking what we can do, and how we can help. Take care!
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