File #006: Hope in Every Trial: Dr. Jaydira Del Rivero on Rare Cancers, Clinical Models, and the Power of Patient Advocacy

In this inspiring episode of Clinical Trial Files, Dr. Jaydira Del Rivero, triple-board-certified oncologist and endocrinologist at the NIH, shares her deeply personal journey from internal medicine to leading global research on rare endocrine cancers. Joined by hosts Taymeyah Al-Toubah, Karin Avila, and Roberto Torres, Dr. Del Rivero reflects on overcoming early career setbacks, the value of mentorship, and the importance of lifelong learning. She breaks down complex concepts like natural history studies, explains the challenges of designing trials for ultra-rare tumors like pheochromocytomas and ACC, and makes a compelling case for personalized medicine, improved community education, and quality-of-life endpoints in research. Her compassion, humility, and patient-driven mission offer rare insights into the human side of science.