Alexandra Boyd’s journey from open heart surgery to clinical research nursing

If you ask my family and friends, they will say I have a heart of gold, but if you ask my cardiologist, he might describe it very differently. I was born with a congenital heart defect called aortic valve stenosis, which requires ongoing cardiac care throughout my life. While I avoided the common treatment of open-heart surgery as an infant, it was certain I would need surgery in the future.

My heart condition impacted my childhood, limiting my stamina for physical activities and requiring me to navigate life at a slower pace than most of my peers. Frequent doctor visits and medical check-ups were just part of life. Instead of fostering a negative perception of the medical field, these experiences inspired me to view the health care professionals who cared for me as my role models. At the age of 4, I realized my aspiration to pursue a career in nursing.

My journey from young cardiac patient to Clinical Research Associate-Registered Nurse (CRA-RN) at St. Jude has been filled with personal and professional obstacles. Although my heart put limits on what I could achieve daily, it created a resilience that has helped see me through.

Coming to St. Jude with an open heart

To pursue my dream of being a nurse, I worked hard academically and earned early acceptance into a nursing program. While in nursing school, my cardiac health began to decline, adding physical and mental strain to an already demanding schedule. My day-to-day became increasingly challenging as I balanced two jobs and the rigorous demands of nursing coursework. Yet, despite these obstacles, I persevered and earned my nursing degree.

My goal was to work at St. Jude, where I could make a meaningful impact on the lives of kids whose childhoods were shaped by severe medical conditions. My passion for this mission was further fueled by the loss of my grandfather to acute myeloid leukemia. The path to St. Jude involved a series of applications and rejections. Determined to succeed, I submitted one final application for a weekend position. In the interview, they asked, "Would you be interested in a full-time position?" I didn't even try to play it cool. Without missing a beat, I blurted out, "Yes, absolutely!" I knew that was my chance, and I wasn't about to let it slip away.

I began a full-time nursing position at the hospital's outpatient infusion center. I loved interacting with the children, spending my days filled with chemo infusions, laughter and playdough. As I poured myself into caring for others, my health was steadily deteriorating, and it became clear that it was time for me to undergo open-heart surgery.

From cardiac patient to research nurse

At birth, I was diagnosed with aortic valve stenosis; this condition makes it difficult for the valve to open and close properly, which disrupts blood flow from my heart to the rest of my body. Further testing revealed I also had a rare defect known as unicuspidal aortic valve. This condition is found in only a small percentage of the adult population, in which my valve had one cusp rather than the typical three. My cardiologist also discovered that I had a weakened ascending aorta. Although I had hoped for a less invasive surgery, open heart surgery was the only option. In June 2021, I underwent successful surgery, receiving a new valve and a repaired aorta. I felt like I had been given a second chance at life.

Since then, I have returned to oncology nursing and embraced an exciting position as a CRA-RN II in the Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy (BMTCT). My primary role is to support the principal investigators in developing and overseeing phase 1 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)–T clinical trials. I diligently monitor patients throughout their treatment journey to ensure adherence to established protocols and regulatory requirements. Additionally, I maintain the integrity of data and ensure that the study is conducted in accordance with the approved protocol and internal standard operating procedures.

To enhance my skills as a CRA-RN, I’ve enrolled in the Clinical Investigations Master’s Program at the St. Jude Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences. As a first-generation advanced degree college student, I am navigating uncharted territory. I aim to enhance my knowledge of methodologies and practices not covered in nursing school, which will improve my ability to provide exceptional collaboration and support to my principal investigators and a deeper understanding of clinical research and data documentation.

Both sides of the stethoscope

Throughout my journey, one thing has remained unwavering: the support of my family. No matter the challenge, I always knew I could rely on them. My mom has been the foundation of my resilience. Despite countless hardships, she worked multiple jobs, balanced her full-time studies and was a loving mother all at the same time. Soon after I began my role at BMTCT, she transferred from a hospital in Memphis to continue her career at St. Jude as a BMTCT Senior Clinical Research Associate.

After experiencing numerous challenges, it felt as though love was out of reach. Once again, my heart was renewed, and I met my husband. He has been such a constant source of encouragement and stability for me over the last few years. He, along with our beloved pets Waylon, Wallen, Wilbur and Willow, as well as our chickens affectionately known as “The Nuggets and Tenders,” bring joy to my life each day. 

My journey has been filled with immense challenges and profound rewards. Having undergone open heart surgery and working as a nurse, I’ve been on both sides of the stethoscope. My story is not just one of personal triumph but also a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of never giving up and the lasting impact of those who walk beside us. 

As I continue my education and grow, both as a nurse and as a person, I am reminded daily of the privilege it is to care for others and to be part of St. Jude, where we are all dedicated to changing the lives of children and families facing the most difficult of circumstances.