Red4Research Blog – Alan’s Story

Started by Sally Humphreys, chair of the R&D Forum’s Research Management Working Group in 2020, #Red4Research is a global initiative that recognises the essential role of clinical research in improving treatment, outcomes, and the future of medicine. It brings together everyone involved in research, from patients to professionals, with a shared purpose: doing better for patients.

To mark this year’s campaign, we spoke with Alan, a participant in one of our current clinical studies, about his experience and why research matters.

Alan’s story began with an unexpected finding during a routine heart scan. He was diagnosed with wild-type amyloidosis and referred to Richmond Pharmacology.

“From start to end, the process was easy,” he recalls. “Everyone knew what they were doing and worked well together, which made things so much better for me.”

Alan’s account is a clear reminder: research is not abstract. It is made real through human experience.

“I learned so much during the trial, and there was always someone to answer questions. The staff were excellent—doctors, nurses, catering, cleaners, reception, even the taxi drivers.”

Alan’s story captures the purpose of Red4Research: people coming together, asking questions, and advancing care through collaboration and curiosity.

Read the full interview below.

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Richmond: So Alan, how did you first hear about Richmond Pharmacology?

Alan: The first I had heard about this was when I was sent for a heart scan and the technician who did this thought I may have a condition called “Wild-type ATTR amyloidosis” and emailed my heart nurse to suggest I go to the Royal Free Hospital for tests. The next stage was to go to the Richmond Pharmacology trials centre where I was met sat down and what would happen if I went ahead with the trial was explained to me, it was explained very clearly and there was plenty of time for me to ask questions. That's when I decided to go on the trial.

Richmond: Could you share what the trial process was like for you?

Alan: For me from start to end the process was so easy, I thought everyone knew what they were doing and worked well together which made things so much better for me.

Richmond: That’s lovely to hear! What would you say to others considering participating in research?

Alan: I can honestly say if you are asked about going on a trial, go and find out about what is going to happen and ask questions, the more you find out the more you will understand if you’re happy then go ahead.

Richmond: Was there a moment during your experience that stood out to you Alan?

Alan: Yes, the actual day I found I was being put on an infusion trial which was so easy! I think for me going on the trial was an easy choice, it wasn't going to get better instantly that's for sure, but there was a very good chance it would really help which after two years I'm not just better but gardening etc which I have not done for 4 years.

Richmond: Did you feel fully informed and supported before, during, and after the trial?

Alan: Yes, from the very beginning to the end I was well informed all the way through, that's for sure.

Richmond: Would you recommend Richmond Pharmacology to others considering a clinical trial?

Alan: I would recommend going on a trial to anyone!

Richmond: Alan, what did you personally gain or learn from being part of the research process?

Alan: So much! I learned about the trial as it went on and there was always someone to answer questions.

Richmond: Would you take part in another clinical trial? Why or why not?

Alan: If there was another trial that was suited for me such as Osteoarthritis, I would.

Richmond: How did the staff at Richmond Pharmacology treat you throughout the process?

Alan: This is the part I've been waiting for! The staff at Richmond are excellent the Doctors, nurses, catering, cleaners, reception and all other staff were fantastic always willing to help and talk, even the taxi drivers.

Richmond: Has participating in research changed your perspective on clinical trials or medical science?

Alan: Yes, I can see how trials are so important for now and the future which I never took much notice of before.

Richmond: Alan how do you think your contribution could help others in the future?

Alan: I hope that by writing this it will help others when deciding to go on a trial, and hope that they will find out about the trial and go ahead with it.

Richmond: What would you say to someone who feels unsure or nervous about taking part in a clinical trial?

Alan: If I were to meet someone who had been asked to go on a trial and was unsure, I would ask them about their illness and then talk about the benefits they may get from going on a trial and how it would help them through the next years.

Richmond: For people working in research who don’t often interact directly with participants, do you feel their roles made a difference to your experience?

Alan: I would like to thank all the research team for all their work, they may not be seen by us, but the efforts and work they do is so important! Once again, a big thank you from the heart.

Richmond: How does it feel knowing that your participation could contribute to future treatments or discoveries?

Alan: I think it's so important that there are Clinical trials. They learn so much from each trial. It's only by trial that they can learn. I think myself it's so important that trials keep going ahead.

Richmond: If you could share one message with the public about why research matters, what would it be?

Alan: Are trials important I say yes, look in the past how trials have helped children and of course us grown, so it gives us hope for the future as there seems to be so many new and old illnesses around. A big thanks to all involved in trials now and from the past.

Richmond: Finally, Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience or the people you met during the trial?

Alan: I would like to thank all the people involved in my case for how they helped me to understand what was happening from the start to end and for how they even keep in touch now. I did meet some nice people having trials it was good because we could talk to each one and help each other which was very encouraging.

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Alan’s story reminds us that clinical research is not only about advancing science, it’s about people. Every participant, every role, and every question asked contributes to better care and a stronger future for patients everywhere.

If you’re interested in taking part in clinical research, you can explore and register for upcoming studies through the Trials4Us website. Your involvement could help shape the next breakthrough in medicine.

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