My name is Alastair and I have been volunteering now for around seven years.
I am a landscape designer/gardener and being self-employed gives me the flexibility to do the clinical trials that I can fit in when I’m not so busy.
I came to do clinical trials as my mother also contributed to medical science and this really opened my eyes to what we could do to help each other. I spoke to my GP, various professionals and my family and the rest is history.
After the study is complete, I give some of the money to the British Heart Foundation as they were amazing with my mum. The rest goes into our family holiday pot.
I have recommended the studies to many friends and a lot of them are now regular volunteers. One of the great things about the trials is meeting new people, many of whom I keep in touch with.
The clinic is always clean, the food is great and with the Sky packages on offer, Wi-Fi, Xbox, pool tournaments and many other activities, you are never bored.
As far as fitting it in around my family, providing you plan well - it’s easy. Thanks to the amazing staff you are always filled with confidence that you are in safe hands from start to finish.