Myasthenia Gravis: Finding Strength in Unity Through Research

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Aqualane Clinical Research

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Aqualane Clinical Research

Posted on

May 18, 2026

Book/Edition

Florida - Southwest

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Living with myasthenia gravis (MG) can make everyday activities feel unpredictable and exhausting. Simple tasks such as walking, talking, chewing, lifting objects, or even keeping your eyes open can become difficult due to muscle weakness and fatigue.

For many individuals diagnosed with MG, the journey involves ongoing treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and searching for better ways to manage symptoms. That’s why clinical research studies like the Synergy-MG Study are so important.

What Is Myasthenia Gravis?

Myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that affects communication between nerves and muscles. This disruption can lead to muscle weakness that worsens with activity and improves with rest.

Common symptoms may include:

  • Drooping eyelids
  • Blurred or double vision
  • Difficulty speaking or swallowing
  • Weakness in the arms and legs
  • Fatigue after physical activity
  • Trouble breathing in severe cases

MG can affect people differently, which is why continued research and treatment development remain critical.

The Purpose of the Synergy-MG Study

The Synergy-MG Study is evaluating an investigational medication for people living with myasthenia gravis. Researchers are studying:

  • How safe the medication is
  • Potential side effects
  • What dose may work best
  • Whether the treatment may help improve MG symptoms

Studies like this help advance medical understanding and may contribute to future treatment options for people living with MG.

Who May Qualify?

The study is currently looking for individuals who:

  • Are between 18 and 74 years old
  • Have been diagnosed with generalized or ocular myasthenia gravis
  • Are currently on a stable dose of medication for MG treatment

Why Clinical Research Matters

Clinical trials are one of the biggest drivers of medical advancement. Every approved treatment available today exists because individuals chose to participate in research studies.

Participating in a study may also provide:

  • Access to investigational treatment options
  • Close monitoring by healthcare professionals
  • The opportunity to contribute to future advancements for the MG community

For many patients, participating in research is about more than themselves — it’s about helping improve the future of care for others living with the same condition.

Learn More About the Synergy-MG Study

If you or someone you know is living with myasthenia gravis and would like to learn more about the Synergy-MG Study, contact:

Aqualane Clinical Research

3200 Bailey Ln, Suite 250
Naples, FL 34105
(239) 529-6780

Together, research and community continue building strength in unity for those living with MG.

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Local Services By This Author

Aqualane Clinical Research

Clinical Studies

About UsWith over 55 years of clinical research experience, Aqualane Clinical Research is committed to advancing medical science and improving lives. By leveraging our expertise in research, we dedicate ourselves to the community and the pursuit of innovative solutions for complex health challenges through the study of new medications.Our MissionWe strive to serve our community by providing cutting-edge experimental treatments for difficult-to-control and untreated neurological conditions. Through ethical, patient-centered research, we seek to develop breakthrough therapies that address unmet medical needs.What We DoAqualane Clinical Research is a leading clinical research organization specializing in the development of new treatments for a wide range of neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. We collaborate closely with patients, caregivers, and industry sponsors to ensure the safe, ethical, and effective study of emerging therapies. Our goal is to offer hope and innovation where current treatments are limited or nonexistent.Our Commitment to Excellence50+ Years of Expertise Our experienced team of doctors and research professionals is dedicated to providing the highest level of care.100% Patient Satisfaction We are committed to guiding patients through the clinical trial process with compassion and transparency.Our Clinical Research AreasWe are actively conducting research in the following areas:Alzheimers Disease Investigating potential treatments to slow, halt, or reverse disease progression.Parkinsons Disease Developing therapies to improve quality of life and manage symptoms.Essential Tremor Exploring the genetic factors and treatment options for this movement disorder.Multiple Sclerosis Advancing treatments through biomarker analysis and cutting-edge imaging.Migraine Studying new medications to provide relief for those suffering from chronic migraine attacks.Neuropsychiatric Conditions Researching novel therapies for depression, anxiety, and psychiatric symptoms associated with neurological disorders.Get InvolvedDiscover how you can participate in a clinical study and contribute to the future of medical innovation. Our team is ready to answer any questions you may have.Meet the TeamDr. William A. Justiz, MDMedical Director, Principal InvestigatorDr. William Justiz completed his undergraduate degree at Northwestern University before receiving his medical degree from the University of Miami School of Medicine. He is board certified in neurology and is a certified physician investigator through the Association of Clinical Research Professionals.With over 20 years of research experience and specialization in degenerative diseases of the nervous system, he has been in continuous practice in Naples, Florida since 1999. He is a founding member of the clinical research program that has grown into Aqualane Clinical Research.Community outreach and service is one of the core values of Dr. Justiz and Aqualane Clinical Research. Dr. Justiz demonstrates this with his 23-year commitment to providing low-cost or free services to epilepsy patients through Epilepsy Services of Southwest Florida. In addition, he has delivered a free educational lecture series every month on all Alzheimer's topics since 2015 through the Alzheimer's Support network.Kelly E. Calistri, B.A.Chief Executive Officer, Site DirectorKelly is a native Floridian, born and raised in Central Florida. Shortly before graduating from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, with a degree in Psychology, she was introduced to the research industry. Almost immediately, she knew this would be her career path.While working at a privately owned clinical research site in Atlanta, she gained experience in several areas, including patient intake, research coordinator, regulatory, and cognitive rater. Working for years across many therapeutic areas, her passion for research grew. With this experience, Kelly received promotions into management roles. Her responsibilities included conducting training, oversight of a staff of 50 people, managing Phase I studies in a unit with 40 beds, and being responsible for business development by attending industry meetings to represent her site. Before opening Aqualane Clinical Research in 2022, she used her expertise and experience to build two startup research sites. Building a team of experts who excel in their field is among her strongest qualities. Her passion for people and the advancement of medicine drives her daily to continue learning. Kelly has seen how new medications can change the lives of people around her.In her free time, you can find Kelly and her husband, who are high school sweethearts, at local baseball fields cheering on their two sons. They are a close family who loves to travel and spend time together. Kelly also loves reading business and personal development books.Dr. Matthew J. Baker, MDMedical Advisor, Principal InvestigatorDr. Baker is a board-certified neurologist practicing for over 20 years. He has been a Principal Investigator in numerous clinical trials, many of which have resulted in regulatory approval of novel therapeutics across the spectrum of neurologic disease, both here and abroad. His primary areas of interest include Neuroimmunology, migraine, and the Neurobehavioral manifestations of disease. Dr. Baker is a nationally recognized educator and lecturer. He enjoys teaching colleagues, medical residents and patients on such topics as Multiple Sclerosis and Myasthenia Gravis. In his spare time, he loves riding roller coasters with this family and playing with his two dogs.

Aqualane Clinical Research

Memory & Dementia Care

HistoryWith a combined 50+ years of clinical research, Dr. Justiz, Dr. Baker, and Kelly Calistri founded Aqualane Clinical Research in 2022. Since 2005, Dr. Justiz and Dr. Baker have been conducting studies together as Principal Investigators for their private practice. With a shared vision for a larger research institute, Kelly, a long-time consultant to the doctors, joined them in forming Aqualane Clinical Research.Message FromOur FoundersAt Aqualane, we always put our patients first.We promise to educate each potential participant and their family members on all options available to them and to support them in their decision-making process. Striving to make clinical trials a practical healthcare option, we provide a comfortable, caring and compassionate environment.Our founders are passionate about their contributions to the advancement of medicine and to the opportunities they provide to people searching for new treatment options. With expertise and experience in research and the central nervous system, you can trust our team of neurologists and researchers to provide the best possible opportunity for you or your loved one.OurTeamDr. William A. Justiz, MDMedical Director, Principal InvestigatorDr. William Justiz completed his undergraduate degree at Northwestern University before receiving his medical degree from the University of Miami School of Medicine. He is board certified in neurology and is a certified physician investigator through the Association of Clinical Research Professionals.With over 20 years of research experience and specialization in degenerative diseases of the nervous system, he has been in continuous practice in Naples, Florida since 1999. He is a founding member of the clinical research program that has grown into Aqualane Clinical Research.Community outreach and service is one of the core values of Dr. Justiz and Aqualane Clinical Research. Dr. Justiz demonstrates this with his 23-year commitment to providing low-cost or free services to epilepsy patients through Epilepsy Services of Southwest Florida. In addition, he has delivered a free educational lecture series every month on all Alzheimer's topics since 2015 through the Alzheimer's Support network.Kelly E. Calistri, B.A.Chief Operating Officer, Site DirectorKelly is a native Floridian, born and raised in Central Florida. Shortly before graduating from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, with a degree in Psychology, she was introduced to the research industry. Almost immediately, she knew this would be her career path.While working at a privately owned clinical research site in Atlanta, she gained experience in several areas, including patient intake, research coordinator, regulatory, and cognitive rater. Working for years across many therapeutic areas, her passion for research grew. With this experience, Kelly received promotions into management roles. Her responsibilities included conducting training, oversight of a staff of 50 people, managing Phase I studies in a unit with 40 beds, and being responsible for business development by attending industry meetings to represent her site. Before opening Aqualane Clinical Research in 2022, she used her expertise and experience to build two startup research sites. Building a team of experts who excel in their field is among her strongest qualities. Her passion for people and the advancement of medicine drives her daily to continue learning. Kelly has seen how new medications can change the lives of people around her.In her free time, you can find Kelly and her husband, who are high school sweethearts, at local baseball fields cheering on their two sons. They are a close family who loves to travel and spend time together. Kelly also loves reading business and personal development books.Dr. Matthew J. Baker, MDPrincipal InvestigatorDr. Baker is a board-certified neurologist practicing for over 20 years. He has been a Principal Investigator in numerous clinical trials, many of which have resulted in regulatory approval of novel therapeutics across the spectrum of neurologic disease, both here and abroad. His primary areas of interest include Neuroimmunology, migraine, and the Neurobehavioral manifestations of disease. Dr. Baker is a nationally recognized educator and lecturer. He enjoys teaching colleagues, medical residents and patients on such topics as Multiple Sclerosis and Myasthenia Gravis. In his spare time, he loves riding roller coasters with this family and playing with his two dogs.Micaela M. Acres, RN, BSNInfusion NurseJacqueline E. BradyCommunity Outreach Coordinator/ ReceptionMatthew B. Cagney, B.S.Clinical Research CoordinatorElena Capron, B.S.Regulatory Coordinator / Social Media CoordinatorBrittany N. Cordero, B.S.Office Manager / Human ResourcesJessica M. DEntremont, RN, MPH, BSNInfusion NurseDarious T. Davis, M.A.Head of Business DevelopmentLaura Gold, B.S.Finance CoordinatorKarma L. Hamilton, M.S.Lead RaterBethany J.M. Henchesmoore, MBAClinical Research CoordinatorJennifer Jimenez-Perez, RN, BSNInfusion NurseCarmen L. Ojeda, M.S.Quality Assurance / Quality ControlMichelle A. O'Neill, M.S.RaterMayve SantosResearch PharmacistAlexandria L. SmithClinical Research Coordinator

Aqualane Clinical Research

Memory Care -Customized Solutions

HistoryWith a combined 50+ years of clinical research, Dr. Justiz, Dr. Baker, and Kelly Calistri founded Aqualane Clinical Research in 2022. Since 2005, Dr. Justiz and Dr. Baker have been conducting studies together as Principal Investigators for their private practice. With a shared vision for a larger research institute, Kelly, a long-time consultant to the doctors, joined them in forming Aqualane Clinical Research.Message FromOur FoundersAt Aqualane, we always put our patients first.We promise to educate each potential participant and their family members on all options available to them and to support them in their decision-making process. Striving to make clinical trials a practical healthcare option, we provide a comfortable, caring and compassionate environment.Our founders are passionate about their contributions to the advancement of medicine and to the opportunities they provide to people searching for new treatment options. With expertise and experience in research and the central nervous system, you can trust our team of neurologists and researchers to provide the best possible opportunity for you or your loved one.OurTeamDr. William A. Justiz, MDMedical Director, Principal InvestigatorDr. William Justiz completed his undergraduate degree at Northwestern University before receiving his medical degree from the University of Miami School of Medicine. He is board certified in neurology and is a certified physician investigator through the Association of Clinical Research Professionals.With over 20 years of research experience and specialization in degenerative diseases of the nervous system, he has been in continuous practice in Naples, Florida since 1999. He is a founding member of the clinical research program that has grown into Aqualane Clinical Research.Community outreach and service is one of the core values of Dr. Justiz and Aqualane Clinical Research. Dr. Justiz demonstrates this with his 23-year commitment to providing low-cost or free services to epilepsy patients through Epilepsy Services of Southwest Florida. In addition, he has delivered a free educational lecture series every month on all Alzheimer's topics since 2015 through the Alzheimer's Support network.Kelly E. Calistri, B.A.Chief Operating Officer, Site DirectorKelly is a native Floridian, born and raised in Central Florida. Shortly before graduating from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, with a degree in Psychology, she was introduced to the research industry. Almost immediately, she knew this would be her career path.While working at a privately owned clinical research site in Atlanta, she gained experience in several areas, including patient intake, research coordinator, regulatory, and cognitive rater. Working for years across many therapeutic areas, her passion for research grew. With this experience, Kelly received promotions into management roles. Her responsibilities included conducting training, oversight of a staff of 50 people, managing Phase I studies in a unit with 40 beds, and being responsible for business development by attending industry meetings to represent her site. Before opening Aqualane Clinical Research in 2022, she used her expertise and experience to build two startup research sites. Building a team of experts who excel in their field is among her strongest qualities. Her passion for people and the advancement of medicine drives her daily to continue learning. Kelly has seen how new medications can change the lives of people around her.In her free time, you can find Kelly and her husband, who are high school sweethearts, at local baseball fields cheering on their two sons. They are a close family who loves to travel and spend time together. Kelly also loves reading business and personal development books.Dr. Matthew J. Baker, MDPrincipal InvestigatorDr. Baker is a board-certified neurologist practicing for over 20 years. He has been a Principal Investigator in numerous clinical trials, many of which have resulted in regulatory approval of novel therapeutics across the spectrum of neurologic disease, both here and abroad. His primary areas of interest include Neuroimmunology, migraine, and the Neurobehavioral manifestations of disease. Dr. Baker is a nationally recognized educator and lecturer. He enjoys teaching colleagues, medical residents and patients on such topics as Multiple Sclerosis and Myasthenia Gravis. In his spare time, he loves riding roller coasters with this family and playing with his two dogs.Micaela M. Acres, RN, BSNInfusion NurseJacqueline E. BradyCommunity Outreach Coordinator/ ReceptionMatthew B. Cagney, B.S.Clinical Research CoordinatorElena Capron, B.S.Regulatory Coordinator / Social Media CoordinatorBrittany N. Cordero, B.S.Office Manager / Human ResourcesJessica M. DEntremont, RN, MPH, BSNInfusion NurseDarious T. Davis, M.A.Head of Business DevelopmentLaura Gold, B.S.Finance CoordinatorKarma L. Hamilton, M.S.Lead RaterBethany J.M. Henchesmoore, MBAClinical Research CoordinatorJennifer Jimenez-Perez, RN, BSNInfusion NurseCarmen L. Ojeda, M.S.Quality Assurance / Quality ControlMichelle A. O'Neill, M.S.RaterMayve SantosResearch PharmacistAlexandria L. SmithClinical Research Coordinator