Fanny donates blood for research

How Fanny Franzén contributes to medical research through blood sample and biopsy studies

Fanny Franzén, 28 years old, has undergone a nasal biopsy, donated bone marrow, and participated in several blood sample studies. She has also participated in an MRI study and a lumbar puncture study. 

She lives in Stockholm and studies IT, Media, and Design at Södertörn University. Since 2018, Fanny has participated in several different studies, primarily in the Stockholm region. CTC met with her to hear about her experience participating. 

Do you remember how it felt to participate in a study for the first time? 

– I decided not to worry because I know I can withdraw whenever I want if it doesn't feel right. I chose to be here myself. 

Why do you want to participate in research studies? 

– It's nice to get some extra money as a student, but most importantly, I think it's important to be able to contribute to research. As a research participant, I contribute to the development of new medicines and treatments.  

Do you feel it's important for more people to participate in studies? 

– Absolutely! Medical research needs to be further developed, so it's important that those of us who are healthy can help people who are very ill.  

Do you ever worry about what happens to the samples you provide? 

– No, I never worry about what happens to my samples. I think carefully about which studies I want to participate in and don't sign up for those I don't want to be part of.  

Do you know what the research clinics use your samples for? 

– Yes, it's exciting! For example, in the autumn of 2020, I participated and provided blood samples for an upcoming coronavirus vaccine. I believe they were looking at white blood cells. Since I had previously provided blood for white blood cell analysis, I often receive more similar requests. In the study where I donated bone marrow, it was for leukemia research.  

Is there anything else you would like to share? 

– I think anyone curious about participating in studies should submit an expression of interest, because if you change your mind, it's not a big deal. If you're curious, I definitely think you should try participating! 

Would you also like to participate in blood sample studies? Register in our database here.