How to Be Truly Helpful
Insights on giving and receiving support when it matters most
For nearly five years, I’ve worked in clinical research in the division of oncology at a leading research institution in the United States, interacting chiefly with lung cancer patients in an outpatient setting. Working as a clinical research coordinator with people who have a terminal diagnosis is extremely difficult, but I am proud to be a helper.
Like many people, I have a history of depression (and, more recently, anxiety). Last month, I visited the ER twice due to a significant mental health episode.
In light of this, I have been reflecting on my experience as both a support person in the medical world and someone with his own health challenges. Although I draw some parallels, in no way is it my intention to equate my mental health issues with a terminal illness.
Providing help
Working in clinical research has been a truly rewarding and humbling experience. The patients I encounter are often terminal at diagnosis and have chosen to donate whatever time they have left to participating in clinical trials. They have elected to undergo novel treatments that, frankly, may or may not benefit them. The data collected from these gracious patients, whether positive or negative, is extremely…
