When illness strikes, sometimes rest is all it takes to bounce back. But what happens when the problem runs deeper? That's when cutting-edge medical research steps in, offering solutions that can transform lives. And this is where the real stories begin—stories of hope, resilience, and groundbreaking discoveries.
Welcome to the Faces of Research series, where we delve into the remarkable journeys of Duke Health patients who faced complex health challenges. These individuals from North Carolina now lead fulfilling lives, thanks to the tireless efforts of researchers and clinicians who push the boundaries of modern medicine. But here's where it gets even more inspiring...
Akenji and Asanti Dingaoyo: A Twin Miracle
Janae Dingaoyo’s twin boys, Akenji and Asanti, were born at just 23 weeks, weighing barely a pound each. Their survival seemed uncertain, but the Duke Children's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit became their lifeline. After six months of ups and downs—including a delicate heart procedure for Asanti and treatment for a severe eye condition—the twins are now thriving toddlers. Akenji’s mischievous grin and Asanti’s cuddly nature bring joy to their family. And this is the part most people miss: It’s not just about survival; it’s about the quality of life research makes possible. Janae reflects, “It has given me a life with my boys. We get to see them grow up, and for that, we’re so thankful.”
Sabrina Lewandowski: Beating the Odds
At 30, Sabrina Lewandowski was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer. Instead of despair, Duke’s Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center offered her hope through an experimental treatment. Now, 23 years later, she’s a living testament to the power of research. Sabrina volunteers with Angels Among Us, a fundraiser for brain tumor research, and cherishes every moment with her husband and daughter. But she’s quick to point out, “I don’t want to think like I beat it, because I don’t know that I did. But every day, I appreciate it.” Controversial question: Can we ever truly ‘beat’ cancer, or is it a lifelong battle?
Yvette Crawley: Seeing Beyond Limits
Retirement was Yvette Crawley’s dream—until macular telangiectasia threatened her vision. Thanks to a groundbreaking gene therapy implant developed through Duke’s research, her sight was preserved. Now, she continues to travel, exercise, and enjoy life without limitations. “This empowers me to make whatever choices I want,” she says. But here's where it gets controversial: How do we ensure such life-changing treatments are accessible to everyone, not just a few?
Creed Kolasa: Walking Against the Odds
Creed Kolasa was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy at six months old, a condition that often leaves children unable to walk by 12. Yet, at 13, Creed walks, attends school, and even cheers for Duke football as an honorary team member. A clinical trial at Duke Children’s Hospital restored the protein his muscles needed, giving him independence. His mother, Jessica, recalls, “They had no solutions—until Duke.” Thought-provoking question: How many more Creeds are out there, waiting for the next breakthrough?
Alfonzo Grafton: A Second Chance
Alfonzo Grafton’s lung cancer was resistant to chemo—until a Duke Cancer Institute trial funded by the NIH turned the tide. The drug targeted a specific protein, and Grafton became a “super responder.” Now, he advocates passionately for research funding: “If it’s something that can be cured, y’all have to keep this funding going.” And this is the part most people miss: Research isn’t just about saving lives; it’s about giving people their lives back.
Bianca Harvey: Dancing Through Cancer
Bianca Harvey’s stage IV colon cancer story went viral on TikTok, where she shared her journey with humor and hope. Through a Duke clinical trial, she transitioned from chemo to immunotherapy, and her latest scans show no signs of cancer. “I want people to know they’re not alone,” she says. Her story highlights how research not only saves lives but also inspires others. Controversial interpretation: Does sharing personal health battles on social media help or exploit vulnerability?
These stories are a testament to the power of research—but they’re just the beginning. Decades of studies, funded by grants from agencies like the NIH, have laid the foundation for treatments that change lives daily. With continued support, what other miracles can we achieve? How many more lives can we transform?
Join the conversation and share your thoughts. Do you believe research funding should be a priority? What health challenges would you like to see tackled next? Let’s keep the dialogue going—because every story matters.
Learn more at: researchsaveslives.duke.edu.
