People living with Sjögren’s disease choose to participate in clinical trials for many different reasons. For some, it is about access to care. For others, it is about helping future patients or advancing understanding of the disease. Hear from patients like Terry, Donna and Teala, about their experiences with clinical trial participation and what it meant to them.
Teala's Clinical Trial Story
Teala was diagnosed with Sjögren’s disease after years of autoimmune symptoms, following the birth of her son with neonatal lupus. As her symptoms worsened and became debilitating, she sought out new options and learned about clinical trials through independent research and the Sjögren’s Foundation. Despite the travel and time commitment required, Teala chose to participate in a trial driven by the hope of addressing the underlying inflammatory process of the disease and helping advance meaningful treatment options for future patients.
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Donna's Clinical Trial Story
Donna was diagnosed with Sjögren’s disease in 2007 after experiencing symptoms throughout her life. She has participated in multiple phase two and phase three clinical trials, approaching each one thoughtfully by reviewing consent materials, asking detailed questions, and involving her family in the decision. Through trial participation, Donna gained access to medical professionals she could engage with regularly and to tests she would not have received otherwise. Her experience reflects the importance of being informed, understanding your options, and recognizing that participation is always a personal choice.
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Terry's Clinical Trial Story
Terry was diagnosed with Sjögren’s disease in 2020 after years of illness. After learning about clinical trials through the Sjögren’s Foundation, she and her husband carefully researched available studies, weighing factors such as travel, time commitment, potential placebo, and whether they felt comfortable with an experimental medication. Despite the challenges of long monthly travel and an intensive enrollment process, Terry chose to participate. Over time, she experienced meaningful improvements that allowed her to return to daily activities, reconnect with friends, and eventually join a long-term extension study. For Terry, participation helped restore not only her health, but her ability to fully engage in life again.
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Find a Clinical Trial
Explore clinical trials for Sjögren’s disease using our interactive map or state listings, and learn more about research opportunities near you.
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