Why clinical trials matter - Jayne's journey
For Jayne, joining a clinical trial with the Jreissati Pancreatic Centre meant fewer trips to Melbourne and more time doing what she loves.
Jayne's from regional Victoria – but her battle with pancreatic cancer began a long way from home.
"We headed off to Japan, and while we were there, I developed a very swollen belly. We went to a Japanese hospital to try to find out what was wrong."
But it wasn't until Jayne was back in her hometown that she found out she had cancer.
Jayne’s treatment initially involved regular trips to Melbourne for chemotherapy, adding the burden of travel to an already difficult period.
"Thankfully, with the support of the hospital, accommodation was available if we needed to stay overnight. The Jreissati Pancreatic Centre has been absolutely fantastic. They have a wonderful team, and the support has been incredible."
Life on a clinical trial
The long trips became less frequent once Jayne found out she was eligible for a clinical trial with the Jreissati Pancreatic Centre.
"Instead of chemotherapy, the treatment became tablets that I could take at home, and I only needed to come to Melbourne once every three weeks."
"One thing I really appreciate about being on a clinical trial with the Jreissati Pancreatic Centre is the level of support. You're monitored very closely. I have a pancreatic nurse and a clinical trials coordinator I can contact at any time, and there are so many extra layers of support.
"The family support from the Jreissati Pancreatic Centre trial team and the medical team has made this journey much easier than it could have been."
Jayne's husband Peter has been her biggest supporter throughout her journey.
"It's given Jayne so much more energy," says Peter. "It's allowed her to participate in family life again. We've attended weddings, taken several short holidays, and she's even been able to return to work part time.
"At the moment she's working two or three days a week, which keeps her busy and gives her purpose.
"The fact that we only need to come to Melbourne every three weeks gives us more family time and allows Jayne to continue doing the things she enjoys."
The importance of research
Jayne and Peter hope to book in more holidays together.
"Maybe not overseas!" Jayne laughs. "I feel like I went overseas and came home with bad news.
"But I'd certainly like to keep travelling around Australia when I can."
Jayne hopes more people learn about the value of clinical trials as a form of treatment.
"We don't always know where these advancements will lead, but every clinical trial teaches us something and contributes to future breakthroughs."
The care and research of the Jreissati Pancreatic Centre at Epworth is fuelled by philanthropy. To find out how you can support the Centre, visit our donation page.