When I was first diagnosed, I was surprised, I had no symptoms at all. I trusted my GP’s advice and was referred to a haematologist for guidance. Initially, it was a “wait-and-see” approach, so neither I nor my family and friends were overly alarmed. I’ve had ongoing immune-mediated problems for a long time, which also meant I wasn’t unusually anxious at first. 

To date, I’ve had two anti-cancer medications. The most difficult part of my journey was the waiting period to be enrolled in a clinical trial. During that time, my health started to decline, and it was a stressful period. But once I began the trial,the best part was seeing and feeling the early positive results, and the ongoing success of the treatment has been incredibly encouraging. 

I’d heard of trials, but didn’t know how to enrol 

or that they were voluntary 

Before being referred to Linear Clinical Research, I had heard of clinical trials but didn’t know how to enrol in one or that participation was voluntary. I approached it with an open mind, hoping that the potential benefits would outweigh any negatives, and they certainly have. 

If someone with cancer asked me about being on a clinical trial, I would tell them to go for it. You have nothing to lose, and you will receive cutting-edge medical treatment while working with highly professional and supportive staff. 

Being told I’m in remission is encouraging 

For me and my family, participation meant some adjustments to daily routines, and in the early phase of the trial, limits on time and travel. Beyond that, it had no major impact on family life. 

Coming to the end of the trial and being told I’m in remission has been incredibly encouraging. It doesn’t mean I feel entirely out of the woods yet, but I am profoundly grateful for what the trial and research staff have achieved. Only time will tell, but for now, there is hope.