After nine visits to Spaulding Rehabilitation Center, 18 days/nights at Mass General Hospital and eight spinal taps later I received the results last week.
I was one of 16 who received the study drug whereas the others received the placebo. The notification letter also stated participants who received the study drug showed no signs of improvement compared to the placebo.
While some of you may see this as a let down I see it as one step further to advance the research around new drugs or devices designed to help those with paralysis regain functionality. Clinical trials are necessary to help find solutions which could one day help all of us. If you ever have the opportunity to participate I recommend speaking with your doctor and weighing the risks/rewards.
I did my research, talked to my doctor, and in the end it was an easy decision. Although it was personal I did not choose to participate in hopes of this helping me, I did it to help others. I hope you come to the same conclusion if given the opportunity!!
As with just about everything post accident I met some amazing people along the way who are now part of my personal and professional network. A huge shout out to the nursing staff at Mass General, my van drivers at Boston Coach and of course the one and only Jenny Min from Spaulding who helped Michelle and I in so many ways. Thank you!!