Debra N

Debra N. first experienced vision changed in college, which her doctor attributed to likely depression. A year later, when she was 45, Debra decided that if she had “definitive answers, it would be better” and returned to see a neurologist, who quickly diagnosed her with MS. When Debra received her diagnosis, there was no medication available. She decided to participate in a clinical trial that lasted 10 years. Debra traveled a long distance to participate in the trial. She was interested in participating because she “didn’t want to do shots” or “pay all that big money” for medications. Participating in a clinical trial was a “good deal. It’s like a twofer.” Though some people in the trial dropped out, Debra stayed on the trial for the duration because she is “one of those people who like to finish things up.” For Debra making it to the end of the trial meant she “met another goal.” After the trial ended, Debra continued on the medication from the trial. Though she had insurance through her employer, Debra felt “incredible guilty because it’s one of those high tier drugs”; she is someone who is “always looking for a way to ease the cost of everything.” 

Debra hopes that the information gathered in the trial is helpful and useful to other people. Debra advises people considering participation in clinical trials to “