Groundbreaking research at AdventHealth is strengthened by Central Florida’s inclusive population

“Make your mess your message.”

For JaVonne Williams, 57, this mantra carries a powerful meaning. Diagnosed with Stage III HR positive Her-2 negative breast cancer four years ago, she has faced chemotherapy, radiation, and a double mastectomy. Now, thanks to her care team at the AdventHealth Cancer Institute, she is embarking on a new journey this month – participating in a groundbreaking clinical trial designed to prevent cancer recurrence.

“It would be a dream come true not to worry about my cancer coming back,” says Williams. “I never want to go through chemotherapy or radiation again.”

Why diversity in trials matters

Clinical trials are essential to advancing medical care, but they can only succeed when participants reflect the varied populations they aim to help. According to the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, different communities may experience the same disease in different ways. Ensuring diversity in trials reduces biases and leads to more innovative treatments.

AdventHealth is helping shape the future of medicine by making clinical trials more inclusive. Central Florida’s diverse population allows researchers to study how new treatments work across different ethnic and genetic backgrounds, leading to better care for everyone.

“Being selected as a research site because of our diversity helps us bring cutting-edge treatments to our local community,” said Dr. Wassim Mchayleh, medical oncologist and medical director of breast oncology at the AdventHealth Cancer Institute. “I always tell my patients when they get on a clinical trial, the clinical trial of today becomes the standard of care for tomorrow.”

Breaking barriers to participation

“Historically, minorities have been underrepresented in clinical trials due to mistrust, lack of education, and concerns about being treated unfairly,” said Mchayleh, who has seen these challenges firsthand.

“Many minority patients hesitate because of historical mistrust or fear of being treated like guinea pigs,” he explains. “Building trust is essential. Patients need to feel safe and supported. That’s why we involve families in the education process and treat the patient like family—it’s key to breaking down barriers.”

Williams shares that education made all the difference for her. She is humbled and now excited to participate in the 10-year research trial.

“Dr. Mchayleh took the time to explain the trial to me,” she says. “I will take a pill for five years and then I’m followed for the next five years. I’ve come to trust him. That trust gave me the confidence to join this journey.”

Doing your homework to be selected

For Williams, the journey to participation in this breast cancer clinical trial that will test a new endocrine therapy to prevent recurrence of her type of cancer started two years ago when Mchayleh approached her in November 2022.

“You don’t just win the lottery and get chosen for a trial, there’s homework in the form of education and planning to prepare for admission. I took a hormone blocker for two years and was accepted into the trial in January 2025.”

A community-focused research hub

AdventHealth’s commitment to diversity has earned national recognition. Last year, an AdventHealth Research Institute (AHRI) clinical trial was honored for having the most diverse participant enrollment across the entire U.S.

In one ongoing cancer trial, nearly half (44%) of the participants are African American – far exceeding typical representation in research studies, which according to a recent FDA report, is usually around 8% in the U.S. Even the breast cancer trial that Williams will be participating almost doubles that national average.

Other current AHRI trials show above-average diversity, with African American participation ranging from 14-24%, include:

• AVAIL – liver disease study related to metabolism (14%)
• REST – Effect of Type 2 Diabetes on skeletal muscle atrophy when on bed rest (24%)
• WHOLEME ENRICHED – genetic testing on high-risk cardiovascular disease patients (16%)

“This type of diversity is essential to creating treatments that work for everyone,” said Mchayleh.

A message of hope

For Williams, getting to participate in a trial has given her hope — and a mission.

“Dr. Mchayleh saw that I could be an eligible candidate and helped prepare me for this opportunity,” she says. “I hope to pay it forward by educating others. Clinical trials aren’t out of reach.”

AdventHealth continues to pave the way for diverse and innovative research, bringing hopeful and life-changing treatments to the community. Learn more about clinical trials at AdventHealth and how you can get involved here.