In a remarkable demonstration of clinical trial success, two-and-a-half-year-old Emmett Doolan from Kitamaat village is thriving today thanks to an innovative treatment program at B.C. Children's Hospital's new clinical trials super hub. Diagnosed before birth with hydrocephalus and subsequently with stage 4 diffused midline glioma, Emmett's case highlights the critical importance of accessible clinical trials for pediatric patients.
The toddler, of Haisla and Nisga'a heritage, underwent her first brain surgery at just two days old. A subsequent biopsy revealed a unique genetic alteration in her brain tumor, making her one of only three children worldwide diagnosed with this specific cancer variant. At two months old, Emmett was enrolled in a clinical trial for Larotrectinib, a targeted chemotherapy treatment.
Revolutionary Clinical Trials Initiative
Dr. Quynh Doan, pediatric emergency physician and senior executive director of B.C. Children's Hospital Research Institute, spearheaded the development of the clinical trials super hub. "Clinical trials save lives," states Doan, emphasizing the complex infrastructure and expertise required to conduct these vital studies.
The super hub represents a paradigm shift in pediatric clinical research delivery. Rather than assembling temporary teams for individual trials, the facility maintains permanent infrastructure and expertise, ensuring consistent access to cutting-edge treatments for young patients across British Columbia and the Yukon.
Addressing Critical Gaps in Pediatric Medicine
The initiative tackles a significant challenge in pediatric healthcare: the limited availability of clinical trials for children. Most medical research focuses on adults, leaving pediatric patients as "therapeutic orphans." This gap exists due to ethical considerations, consent challenges, and pharmaceutical companies' limited interest in the pediatric drug market.
Community Support and Future Impact
The project has garnered substantial community support, raising over $8 million through the Crystal Ball fundraiser and an additional $2 million at the For Children We Care Gala. These efforts have brought the initiative close to its $12 million funding goal.
For Emmett Doolan, the impact is already evident. While her treatment is not a cure, she is meeting developmental milestones and speaking confidently in three languages - Nisga'a, Haisla, and English. "She's thriving," reports her mother, Lena Doolan. The oral medication allows Emmett to continue treatment while remaining at home with her family.
The super hub aims to expand beyond oncology trials to include research for various rare pediatric diseases and conditions. This expansion will ensure that more children like Emmett can access potentially life-saving treatments without leaving their province.
"From the moment your child gets sick, as a parent you feel so much guilt and anxiety," Dr. Doan reflects, drawing from her personal experience with her own child's health challenges. "When you are told there is nothing that can be done, and you have to watch it progress, it's a feeling of failure. It's redeeming as a parent, and as a scientist to be able to facilitate something like this."
