When asked why she signed up for an HIV vaccine study, Wendy Hilliker said, "It's a combination of reasons, but it boils down to wanting to make a difference."

Hilliker is one of thousands of HIV-negative volunteers nationwide who have participated in ongoing studies sponsored by the HIV Vaccine Trials Network. Funded by the National Institutes of Health and coordinated by Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, the network operates 12 clinics across the country — including the Seattle HIV Vaccine Trials Unit — that test potential vaccines against the life-threatening virus. Participants receive either a vaccine or a placebo. Researchers then evaluate the vaccine's ability to produce an immune response that could potentially provide protection from HIV.

Over her 18-month participation, Hilliker received four injections of the vaccine, but she said she never once felt any ill effects.

Although Hilliker knew from talking with study staff there was no risk of contracting the virus from the vaccine, her biggest concern was that others wouldn't share that understanding. "The study coordinator said I might encounter attitudes and prejudices, but that didn't happen," she said.

The vaccine trial wasn't Hilliker's first effort to help people with HIV/AIDS. As a massage therapist, she offered free massages to AIDS patients. "It's hard to articulate, but helping people in the final stages of life has always been an interest of mine," said Hilliker. "Serving someone during this time is a profound experience."

Hilliker said the Hutchinson Center's involvement also motivated her to participate. "I grew up in Seattle, and I have a tremendous amount of respect for the Hutchinson Center," she said. "The study staff was very supportive and responsive and understanding. They answered all of my questions. I thought everything was very well explained. If I were eligible for other studies, I would volunteer again, absolutely."

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