Meet Marion — A clinical trial coordinator committed to improving quality of life for people living with chronic lung diseases.
Q: What is your role in health research?
A: I am a clinical trial coordinator at the Interstitial Lung Disease Clinic at Vancouver General Hospital, where I support the delivery of clinical trials and help connect patients with emerging therapies. My role involves preparing and calibrating study equipment, such as spirometers and electrocardiogram machines, as well as conducting protocol-driven assessments with patients, including breathing and walk tests. I also spend much of my time recruiting eligible participants and ensuring accurate and timely data collection.
Q: What is your research area of interest, and what led you to it?
A: My interest in research began during my pediatric respirology fellowship in the Philippines, where I completed two research papers. I had the opportunity to present them at international respiratory conferences in the United States, which sparked both my passion for research and my love of travel. Since joining the Centre for Lung Health, I’ve been fortunate to continue combining these interests by attending conferences while exploring new places.
Q: What is the best part about your research job?
A: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a type of interstitial lung disease, is a life-limiting condition with a prognosis comparable to some aggressive cancers. While medications can slow disease progression, there is currently no cure aside from lung transplantation. It is incredibly fulfilling to be part of a team dedicated to finding better treatments — and ultimately a cure — that can improve both survival and quality of life for patients.
Q: What is one of your proudest career moments?
A: Around 20 per cent of IPF patients must discontinue their treatments because of negative side effects. I am proud to have contributed to the FIBRONEER clinical trial, which introduced a new treatment option with more manageable side effects. Being part of research that can meaningfully improve patients’ quality of life highlights the importance of looking beyond clinical endpoints and considering the overall patient experience.
Q: What was your first job?
A: I worked as a pediatric respirologist before immigrating to Canada. Caring for children was deeply rewarding and, in some ways, less complex than adult care.
Q: Who inspires you?
A: My patients are a constant source of inspiration. Despite facing serious diagnoses, they demonstrate remarkable resilience, optimism and a willingness to participate in clinical trials in the hope of helping others.
Q: What is something people might be surprised to learn about you?
A: I volunteer at the Vancouver Marine Mammal Rescue Society, where I help care for rescued seals. One of the most rewarding moments is seeing them released back into the wild.
Q: What advice would you give your younger self?
A: Enjoy every moment, stay healthy and embrace the journey — there’s a wonderful life ahead.
