Uncharted Territory: One Man’s Story of Navigating Prostate Cancer and a Clinical Trial

Sponsored by Merck When Euvon Jones was only 59 years old, he faced a startling diagnosis of stage IV prostate cancer that had spread to his lymph nodes and bones in his back, hip and chest. Euvon explored treatment options with his oncologist, but due to the advanced stage of his cancer, surgery, chemotherapy and radiation were deemed unsuitable. However, Euvon was eligible to participate in a clinical trial studying an investigational treatment. Initially apprehensive, Euvon had reservations about joining a clinical trial. He was hesitant because of a lack of understanding about clinical trials, which were an “uncharted territory” for him. In fact, he didn’t know anyone who had participated in a clinical trial before. However, with education from his oncologist, the love and support of his family and his faith in God, he eventually decided to enroll. Three pivotal factors played a role in his decision:  He trusted his oncologist because she was transparent about the clinical trial process and talked him through the risks and possible benefits to consider as he was making a decision. He had confidence in his oncologist’s 30 plus years of experience and knowledge about clinical trials.  His oncologist shared that she was...