At the age of 14, RJ Thompson, an adult with cystic fibrosis, participated in his first research trial. Over the past 25 years since then, he has participated in at least 12 trials. “I believe in being a part of a community — be it a CF community or otherwise,” RJ said. “I also believe that, if I'm healthy enough, I have an obligation to assist researchers in progressing or advancing therapies and cure research, as much as I can. So, I try to stay active, fit, and healthy enough to participate in the trials that I can and that they may have trouble recruiting for. Ironically enough, the state of my health, if positive, can also exclude me from some trials — so I contribute where I can.” While participating in a clinical trial may not always be fun or easy, RJ feels the experience can be meaningful and rewarding, nonetheless. His advice for others who are considering participating in a clinical trial? “Understand your motivations and your comfort levels within those motivations. Not ...