Inspired by patient-scientist Dr. Tom Marsilje, who co-founded COLONTOWN’s clinical trials neighborhoods, this program trains participants to educate community members about clinical trials as a treatment option and to guide patients in identifying and pursuing appropriate clinical trial options.
Navigator Training Program
Our inaugural training, presented in collaboration with Fight CRC, offered participants from COLONTOWN and Fight CRC’s Research Advocacy and Training Support Program the opportunity to:
- Share in-depth knowledge about the Late-Stage MSS Trial Finder and other trial-finding resources
- Learn about relevant biomarkers and other factors than can help patients narrow their trial options
- Learn about genomic testing related to clinical trial selection
- Practice conversation techniques for helping patients clarify their goals for participating in clinical trials
- Lay the groundwork for implementing a trial navigation program in COLONTOWN
Program Faculty
Steve Schwarze
Steve, a Professor of Communications and stage iv crc patient, is PALTOWN's Director of Clinical Trials Programming.
Manju George
Manju, PALTOWN's Scientific Director, manages COLONTOWN's CRC 101 group. A PhD and DVM, she is a rectal cancer survivor and clinical trials educator.
Maia Walker
Maia, a longtime clinical trials navigator and patient advocate, is Lead Curator of Fight CRC's Trial Finder.
2020 Program Partner
2021 Program Sponsors
