Walking Through Clinical Studies with Tom Storer August 4, 2021 Tom Storer’s diagnosis with prostate cancer, as it is for many patients, was an unwelcome shock. The news left him feeling understandably overwhelmed. Among the many decisions he had to make after a diagnosis, choosing a treatment was one of the most difficult. Additionally, he wanted to consider whether, if qualified, participating in clinical trials was right for him. “Clinical trials are research studies that help doctors find out if study drugs (alone or with other treatments) are safe and if they can help prevent, find, or treat diseases or other conditions.” Clinical trials can be beneficial for both present and future patients. They’re conducted to determine safety, dosage, and conditions of an investigational drug or asset. Active participants benefit from close monitoring, advice, care and support of the research team. Trials are available all over the country, and are vital for developing new medicines and treatments for those fighting prostate cancer. When considering whether to participate in a clinical trial, financial decisions need not be a burden, clinical trial participation is often covered by the patient’s health insurance or by the sponsor of the trial.Storer’s doctor recommended him for the clinical trial in which he’s currently participating. Since it was his first trial, Storer wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. However, what he found was a safe, organized, and transparent process. “Since it was all new, the experiences went from abstract to concrete. Every part of the trial was professionally done and gave me a sense of confidence,” he says. Some patients benefit emotionally by participating and discover a new sense of empowerment when making medical decisions. Along with emotional benefit, patients may feel fulfilled by a sense of giving back. When asked what advice he may have for anyone considering a clinical trial, Storer had this to say: “Go for it. The process is a good way to take care of yourself and you are helping others in the future.” As we wrapped up the interview, Storer had a bit of advice for everyone going through prostate cancer: “Always stay positive. There is no reason to panic. It can be serious, but it does not have to be fatal. Always stay positive.” For more information on clinical trials, visit www.zerocancer.org/clinicaltrials.Written by Chloe Fellwock. Chloe Fellwock grew up in Indianapolis and has strong opinions on the best bookshops and breakfast restaurants. She approaches work and life the same way: with enthusiasm and curious about the possibilities. Chloe believes everyone has a story and deserves to have it told well. That’s why she’s honored to be able to work with ZERO and help the incredible work they do to continue. She appreciates the power of communication and is dedicated to amplifying the voices of those around her. Whether she’s at work, school or just passing the time, writing is her life. She spends her time writing sketch comedy for a late night show in Muncie and working toward her degree in advertising at Ball State. Before coming to ZERO, Chloe tried her hand at floral arranging at her local Kroger, bookselling, and ice cream making. While the list of jobs she’s tried is all over the place, she loves the variety of experiences it’s given her. No matter where she goes in life, Chloe hopes to continue learning from the people around her and sharing what they teach her. Blog Posts Clinical Trials Health Equity Research More for you
Tom Storer’s diagnosis with prostate cancer, as it is for many patients, was an unwelcome shock. The news left him feeling understandably overwhelmed. Among the many decisions he had to make after a diagnosis, choosing a treatment was one of the most difficult. Additionally, he wanted to consider whether, if qualified, participating in clinical trials was right for him. “Clinical trials are research studies that help doctors find out if study drugs (alone or with other treatments) are safe and if they can help prevent, find, or treat diseases or other conditions.” Clinical trials can be beneficial for both present and future patients. They’re conducted to determine safety, dosage, and conditions of an investigational drug or asset. Active participants benefit from close monitoring, advice, care and support of the research team. Trials are available all over the country, and are vital for developing new medicines and treatments for those fighting prostate cancer. When considering whether to participate in a clinical trial, financial decisions need not be a burden, clinical trial participation is often covered by the patient’s health insurance or by the sponsor of the trial.Storer’s doctor recommended him for the clinical trial in which he’s currently participating. Since it was his first trial, Storer wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. However, what he found was a safe, organized, and transparent process. “Since it was all new, the experiences went from abstract to concrete. Every part of the trial was professionally done and gave me a sense of confidence,” he says. Some patients benefit emotionally by participating and discover a new sense of empowerment when making medical decisions. Along with emotional benefit, patients may feel fulfilled by a sense of giving back. When asked what advice he may have for anyone considering a clinical trial, Storer had this to say: “Go for it. The process is a good way to take care of yourself and you are helping others in the future.” As we wrapped up the interview, Storer had a bit of advice for everyone going through prostate cancer: “Always stay positive. There is no reason to panic. It can be serious, but it does not have to be fatal. Always stay positive.” For more information on clinical trials, visit www.zerocancer.org/clinicaltrials.Written by Chloe Fellwock. Chloe Fellwock grew up in Indianapolis and has strong opinions on the best bookshops and breakfast restaurants. She approaches work and life the same way: with enthusiasm and curious about the possibilities. Chloe believes everyone has a story and deserves to have it told well. That’s why she’s honored to be able to work with ZERO and help the incredible work they do to continue. She appreciates the power of communication and is dedicated to amplifying the voices of those around her. Whether she’s at work, school or just passing the time, writing is her life. She spends her time writing sketch comedy for a late night show in Muncie and working toward her degree in advertising at Ball State. Before coming to ZERO, Chloe tried her hand at floral arranging at her local Kroger, bookselling, and ice cream making. While the list of jobs she’s tried is all over the place, she loves the variety of experiences it’s given her. No matter where she goes in life, Chloe hopes to continue learning from the people around her and sharing what they teach her.
