For a PEP it is always personal: Bringing the passion and persistence in the patient voice into paediatric trial design

This Pep Talks episode features Begonya Nafria Escalera, head of patient engagement in research at St. John De De Children's Hospital, who champions the inclusion of children and young people in clinical research, a practice not yet widespread in Spain. Begonya discusses the challenges of communicating complex trial protocols to young patients and their families, highlighting the innovative methods her department employs, such as high-realistic simulation, to ensure trials are both patient-friendly and effective. Sharing her personal journey, Begonya emphasises the importance of publishing successful patient involvement projects to inspire others. The conversation underscores the need for persistence, passion, and collaboration in patient engagement and celebrates the positive trend of pharmaceutical companies increasingly valuing patient input in clinical trial design.