Sharing her experience for the benefit of others

Doris Shank
Administrative Director, Clinical Trials
Penn State Cancer Institute

“We have great physicians who are conducting clinical trials to find new ways to treat cancer,” says Doris Shank. “The real heroes, though, are the people who participate. They volunteer out of the kindness of their hearts. They know they may not benefit personally, but their participation will benefit others.”

After nearly 40 years as a nurse working in oncology and research, Doris Shank understands clinical trials. That’s why, as the administrative director of Penn State Cancer Institute’s Clinical Trials Office, she’s on a mission to educate patients about how clinical trials improve treatment options and advance cancer care.

“I’ve always been intrigued by how clinical trials are an idea that turns into standard practice,” she said. “Every prescription drug, whether for cancer, diabetes or high blood pressure, has gone through a clinical trial before the FDA approves them.”

As a breast cancer survivor, Doris is passionate about ensuring patients know they don’t need to travel to Pittsburgh or Philadelphia to access leading-edge research and clinical trials. From targeted therapies to exploring new uses for existing treatments, Penn State Health provides these opportunities right here in central Pennsylvania.

That’s why she’s made it her mission to encourage patients to get needed tests, like a mammogram or lung cancer screening.

It’s stories like these that drive our purpose.