Our researchers are leading the way in a world-first clinical trial to protect vulnerable cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Two innovative clinical trials led by Stroke Neurologist Dr. Dar Dowlatshahi intend to help stroke patients recover: one will use technology, the other stem cells.

Dr. David Gray’s cancer was hiding in plain sight. When a pea-sized tumour on his cheek turned out to be Stage 3c melanoma, with a high risk of spreading, he decided to join a clinical trial that compared two immunotherapy drugs.

One morning in 2001, Heather Harris’ right foot went numb and then the numbness spread up her entire right side. This first multiple sclerosis attack led to her taking part in a clinical trial at The Ottawa Hospital that virtually eliminated her disease, yet she was still able to give birth to a healthy baby girl.

Marina Moraitis was inspired to give back to The Ottawa Hospital and future patients by taking part in two world-first clinical trials – studying ‘chemo fog’ and exercise – while undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer.

Chemotherapy wasn’t working for Cathy Chapman. However, a genetic test identified a specific gene mutation that meant she could take part in a new international cancer drug trial – the first patient in Canada.