The Young and the RA

I witnessed an incident the other day that really hit me, and I wanted to share it with you.

So, to set the scene, I was getting blood drawn at the university hospital I go to for my doctor appointments. As I was sitting there, I noticed a woman going around to individuals in the waiting room to ask them if they would be willing to donate blood to a gene bank that was being started by the university to be used in research.

Now, I was a little surprised that no one was willing to step up and give an extra vial of blood. I mean they were already getting it drawn; how hard is it to give a little more? So when she finally made it to me, I told her, “Yes, I would love to help.” She seemed a little taken aback. I guess after so many no’s, you aren’t ready for the yes.

As I got up to follow her to get the survey they needed filled out to go along with my donation, a man sitting near me pipes up, “So do you pay for giving blood? I’ll do it if you pay.” ARE YOU KIDDING ME?

While it is true that some researchers give reimbursements for participation in studies, I have to imagine those studies involve a little more than a one-time survey and a tube of blood. To only help researchers when money is involved is selfish. The research that is being done now is going to help provide better healthcare for us in the future, not to mention our kids, grandkids, great-grandkids, etc. 

I very strongly believe in participating in as many research opportunities as possible. There is no cure for RA currently, and the treatments currently available don’t work for about 40 percent of those with RA. I want to do all I can to assist researcher in finding treatments for these people. 

Now, I know not everyone goes to a rheumatologist at a research university as I do, but if you do, it is not hard to get involved in research. There are flyers up all over the lobbies (next time take a long look while waiting for your doctor), and often your rheumatologist will ask if you would be interested in participating in some study or another. It’s really not hard to get involve.

For those of you that don’t see doctors at a research hospital, there are other ways to get involved in studies if you are interested. Check out researchra.com or centerwatch.com your local university hospital for research opportunities.

Until next time,

S.P.