RAY Users Speak on the Importance of Participating in Lupus Research
What is RAY?
Research Accelerated by You (RAY®) is a patient registry where people living with lupus and their caregivers share their experiences and preferences through an online survey to help researchers better understand lupus. This information is shared confidentially with researchers (your personal information remains de-identified and anonymous) to help inform the development of new lupus drugs and enhance clinical trials—accelerating the potential for new therapies for people with lupus. RAY is easy to use, but don’t take it from us– listen to what actual RAY participants have to say!
Jazmin’s Perspective
“I wanted to participate in RAY because I wanted to see what options were available to me in lupus research, and get involved. It’s important for me to know which clinical trials I’m eligible for, and to share that information with my mom, who is a Black/African American lupus warrior, as well. RAY has given me the educational background and knowledge about lupus clinical trials to be able to share with my family, caregivers, and even my doctors. Aside from learning about and participating in research, I also like that RAY offers a comprehensive overview of where I am in my lupus journey. The RAY team has been phenomenal and communicative, making me feel supported throughout the process.”
Doug’s Perspective
“Being a part of RAY has given me access to research opportunities I would never have come across. When I was diagnosed with lupus, I didn’t know much about it. Most of what I’ve learned about my diagnosis has been through the Lupus Foundation of America and RAY. RAY has been very educational and has helped me learn how to track my symptoms on my own, and educate others. I like learning more about my condition. I was fortunate to be involved in a patient advisory panel that came about because of RAY. That was the first time I met other people living with the same type of lupus as me; It was such a positive experience. RAY was very easy to sign up for and it’s clear to me that my information is confidential. I encourage others to at least sign up for RAY to see how it may benefit them and ultimately help to move lupus research forward.”
How Do I Get Involved?
To become a RAY participant and lend your experience living with lupus to advance lupus research, simply register online and complete the initial survey at your own pace. It’s important to return to your RAY account and update information about your experience living with lupus every six months so researchers have the most up-to-date data to investigate health patterns and trends over time.
Become a part of the solution in the fight against lupus by joining RAY today! For more information, visit the RAY webpage.