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Ask the Doctor: Clinical Research and the Black Patient Experience

Name: Ask the Doctor: Clinical Research and the Black Patient Experience
Start: 2026-10-01T19:00:00-04:00
End: 2026-10-01T20:00:00-04:00

Oct 01, 2026

07:00PM - 08:00PM EDT

Online Event

Overview

Join us for a special Ask the Doctor conversation with Dr. Eden Billtibo from Vanderbilt University, focused on clinical research and the Black patient experience. We'll discuss what clinical trials are, when they may be an option, what questions to ask your care team, and what Black patients should know when considering participation.

Bring your questions for the live Q&A, or submit them in advance when you register.

SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS

Agenda

7:00 PM

Introduction

Valarie Traynham

Valarie introduces the agenda and our speakers Eden Biltibo, MD, MS

7:05 PM

Presentation

Eden Biltibo, MD, MS

Dr. Biltibo talks about clincal research and the black patient experience

7:35 PM

Questions and Answers

Audience

Come with your questions and we will answer them!

Speakers & Moderators

Valarie Traynham

Valarie embarked on her myeloma journey back in 2015, and ever since she's been on a mission. As a resilient myeloma thriver, her passion lies in not just navigating her own path but also in illuminating the journey for others. With a steadfast commitment to understanding the intricacies of the disease, she champions education, shedding light on health inequities that often lurk in the shadows. Driven by a profound belief in fairness, Valarie tirelessly advocates for equitable access to top-tier healthcare, clinical trials, and tailored treatments. Her journey as a beacon of knowledge and support began when she assumed the role of a support group leader. Today, she continues to extend her hand as a myeloma coach, mentor angel, and the guiding force behind the Black Myeloma Health Community. Valarie's voice echoes far and wide as she fearlessly confronts the disparities faced by myeloma patients. Through collaborative efforts with healthcare providers, she strives to forge pathways to solutions, ensuring that every individual receives the care they deserve. Join Valarie on her journey of empowerment and advocacy as she lights the way toward a brighter, more equitable future in myeloma care.

Eden Biltibo, MD, MS

Dr. Biltibo received her medical degree from Gondar University School of Medicine in Ethiopia, and her postdoctoral training includes residency and chief residency at Meharry Medical College, a master’s in Clinical and Translational Science at the Medical College of Wisconsin, and a hematology/oncology fellowship at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Influenced by her own experiences, Dr. Biltibo is passionate about developing strategies to bridge health care disparities in multiple myeloma care. Her focus is on the equitable use of immunotherapeutics in myeloma and on improving racial diversity of clinical trial participants. She is a recipient of the 2022 American Society of Hematology Inclusion Pathway Award, the 2022 Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials Career Development Award, and a 2023 Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation Research Scholars Award. Currently, Dr. Biltibo is an assistant professor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee.