Updates on My First Research Study

Remember when I was on my period and nervous about giving blood for the first time? Well, that appointment had to be rescheduled because of the weather, so crisis averted. Kidding, it was actually a rather quick and easy experience once it was rescheduled.

How I got involved

Another sickle cell warrior introduced me to Sanguine BioSciences as a way they give back to the community and generate some extra income. So, I signed up for a couple of studies. I knew research studies paid decently well from college, but I never really qualified for any until finding sickle cell-specific studies. To think I was missing out on getting paid for research all this time.

So basically, you sign up online and get a follow-up call during which they ask you all these screening questions to make sure you’re appropriate for the study. Then you have to get your healthcare provider to release some health documents and then you schedule the appointment.

The donation process

They have a whole team of phlebotomists – experts in drawing blood – who come to your home at your convenience! I wish all my health appointments were like that. The person I got was super friendly. We talked about how exciting this time in my life is and how eager I am to continue to give back to the sickle cell community. The visit only took about 15 minutes and even though they took 8 vials of blood, I did not faint.

Did you know young, female, and first-time blood donors are the most likely to faint? I guess sickle cell warriors would be excluded from the “first-time” donating bucket, considering how much blood we give for lab tests on a regular basis. There was truly no reason to be nervous as the entire process was much easier than a routine health appointment with my hematologist and I did not have to wait around for anyone to see me. Plus, I did get a gift-card at the end of the whole thing.

Research studies vs. clinical trials

I still have my hesitations with clinical trials though. I bet you’re wondering what’s the difference. Well, a research study is a pretty broad term that can include anything from a focus group answering questions, filling out a survey, or completing some lab tests to donating blood.

A clinical trial involves some sort of intervention like testing a new medication. Clinical trials are kind of a big deal as they tend to be more involved. Clinical trials can be a great option if current treatments aren’t working, something I would talk over with my doctor before signing up for though.

Was it worth it?

I'm already signed up to donate again. I expect the process to be the same. I hope to find other projects to sign up for too, as my time allows and I continue to meet all the screening requirements. So if you’re looking for a way to give back to the community, make a little extra income, or just want to know what it’s like to donate blood, I would highly recommend singing up for a research study.