Fixing Cracks in Healthcare with Mary Futrell

Voices of Inclusive Research

Clinical research holds the power to change the future of healthcare for communities of color—but it can't happen without your voice.
In this episode of Voices of Inclusive Research, Dr. Renarda Jones sits down with Mary Futrell, a community leader and seasoned research participant, to discuss the significance of involving underserved populations in clinical studies.
Mary shares her experience in advocating for research in communities where access to healthcare and education is limited, but the need is great. She highlights the misconceptions and stigmas that often prevent participation, particularly in understanding diseases like Alzheimer’s.
She explains that by engaging in research, individuals help shape treatments and preventive measures for future generations, ensuring that healthcare becomes more inclusive and effective.
Building trust between researchers and communities is vital, and Mary emphasizes the power of relationship-building and word of mouth in encouraging more people to get involved.
Tune in to this episode and learn how you can be part of shaping a healthier, more inclusive future for all.

Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments

• The Power of Participation: Learn how community participation in clinical research helps shape future treatments and preventive measures for more inclusive healthcare.
• Breaking Misconceptions: Discover the common misconceptions and stigmas that often prevent people from getting involved in clinical studies, and how to overcome them.
• Preventive Research and Chronic Illness: Gain insights into the critical role of preventive research in addressing chronic illnesses like diabetes and dementia within communities of color.
• The Value of Health Education: Hear why educating yourself about health conditions and passing that knowledge to others is essential in empowering communities.
• Building Trust for Better Research: Know the importance of building trust between researchers and communities to foster more active involvement in clinical research.
• Word of Mouth as a Tool: Discover the power of word of mouth in encouraging others to participate in research and make a difference.

Words of Wisdom: Standout Quotes from This Episode

• “If a cure comes and you have not participated, they won't know about your race and it may not work perfectly.”— Mary Futrell
• “They might be stepping back if they don't step up.” — Mary Futrell
• “Even if the research doesn't help you, you have children and grandchildren that you should want to bring them to another level.” — Mary Futrell
• “If you don't give your voice, they're only going to hear everybody else's voice.” — Mary Futrell
• “Research is about fixing cracks.” — Mary Futrell
• “I started diverse research now to serve the community, to give them something back.” — Dr. Renarda Jones
• “We can't just go in and ask them to participate in things. We have to serve them and give them something.” — Dr. Renarda Jones
• “Building that relationship and not just talking about the research, because there's so many other things that's going on in their life.” — Dr. Renarda Jones

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We Want to Hear Your Voice!

Your insights on how inclusive research impacts your life and community are invaluable. Share your experiences and thoughts on how we can bridge the gap between research and real-world needs. Your stories drive our mission and inspire the future of inclusive research!

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1. Introduction and Welcome (00:00:00)

2. Personal Insights on Clinical Research (00:01:26)

3. Experiences and Challenges in Research Participation (00:03:50)

4. Building Community Relationships for Better Research (00:09:58)

5. Community Engagement and Diversity in Research (00:23:11)

6. Empowering Through Education and Involvement (00:24:50)

7. Building Stronger Intergenerational Connections (00:25:38)

8. Addressing Community Needs Holistically (00:27:27)