Sarah's story
One application. One conversation. One clinical trial journey.
- Weight management
- Central Coast clinic
- About three years
When Sarah first came across a weight management clinical trial online, she wasn't sure whether clinical research was for her.
In her early 60s, Sarah had been trying to manage her weight for some time. She was open to exploring different approaches and was curious about the opportunity to participate in research investigating a potential treatment for weight management.
But she also had reservations.
Rather than dismissing the opportunity because of these uncertainties, Sarah decided to find out more.
That initial enquiry became the beginning of a clinical trial journey lasting approximately three years.
Five stages, about three years
How Sarah's journey unfolded
Discover
Finding an opportunity
For Sarah, applying wasn't about making a commitment. It was about getting answers.
Sarah discovered the weight management study online while exploring different approaches to managing her weight.
What this means for you
Access
Clinical trials can provide eligible participants with access to investigational treatments being studied.
Talk
Having the first conversation
The conversation wasn't about persuading Sarah to participate. It was about helping her make an informed decision.
Next came a phone call from the Paratus Clinical recruitment team. For Sarah, this was an opportunity to discuss some of the concerns she had about participating in clinical research.
What this means for you
Your choice
Ask questions. Take time to decide. Participation is voluntary.
Visit
Visiting the clinic
After speaking with the recruitment team, Sarah decided she wanted to learn more and was invited to the Paratus Central Coast clinic. She met the study team and a doctor, who explained the trial in greater detail.
Participate
Becoming part of the study
What began as an unfamiliar experience became a regular part of her life over the following three years.
Sarah began receiving the investigational study treatment weekly. Taking part required a commitment from Sarah, with regular appointments at the Paratus Central Coast clinic, typically around once a month, and some follow-ups taking place remotely by phone.
What this means for you
Your time matters
Receive reimbursement for all study-related time and travel.
Supported throughout
Stay connected with the research team throughout your participation.
Reflect
Seeing the journey unfold
Over approximately three years of participation, Sarah experienced a significant change in her weight and how she felt day to day. She entered the study weighing over 100 kg and experienced substantial weight loss during her time on the trial.
But when Sarah reflected on her experience, it wasn't simply the number on the scales that stood out. She described how she felt in just a few words:
“I feel 20 years younger.”
Sarah, study participant, Central Coast
Sarah's experience is individual, and outcomes can vary. Investigational treatments are studied to better understand their safety and effectiveness, and positive outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Your first step can be just as simple.
You don't need to know whether a clinical trial is right for you before you apply. Applying gives you the opportunity to speak with our team, ask questions and understand what taking part could involve before deciding whether you want to continue.