Clinical Trials Day 2025 at Moores Cancer Center
Clinical Trials Day 2025 at UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center was a powerful and inspiring celebration of the people, science and stories at the heart of clinical research. Held on May 20th, the event brought together patients, caregivers, clinicians and scientists to honor the life-changing impact of clinical trials and the partnerships that make them possible.
The day began with welcome remarks from Moores director Diane M. Simeone, MD, who set the tone by acknowledging the vital role clinical trials play in advancing cancer care and improving outcomes for patients. From there, the program spotlighted the voices and experiences that make research personal and meaningful.
Moores associate director of clinical science, Rana McKay, MD, introduced the first patient panel and led a heartfelt fireside chat with Bill Ferenczy, Ann O’Brien, Tamara Elder and Jeffrey Johnson. Each shared moving testimonies of resilience, hope and the crucial part clinical trials played in their cancer journeys. Their stories underscored the real-world impact of research and the importance of care teams in guiding patients through complex decisions.
After a community lunch break, Ramez Eskander, MD, introduced the second panel, followed by another deeply engaging discussion featuring Michelle Brubaker, Paul Wormser and Brian Fontanes. These conversations highlighted the courage and strength of trial participants, as well as the collective commitment of care teams to support patients at every step.
Throughout the day, attendees also explored an ongoing poster session in Comer Commons, showcasing current and upcoming clinical trials, and a resource fair in the Bamboo Garden that connected the community with tools and support services.
The event closed with final reflections from event leads Joyce Tull, Ramez Eskander, MD, and Rana McKay, MD, who expressed gratitude for the patients who share their stories, the teams who care for them, and the community that continues to push cancer research forward.
Clinical Trials Day 2025 was more than an event — it was a reminder of why we do this work. It honored the hope that drives us, the collaboration that sustains us, and the promise that clinical trials hold for the future.