On January 18th, 2020 I was admitted into the hospital with a spinal cord abscess. After having surgery at the University of Florida, I was then moved to Brooks Rehabilitation Hospital in Jacksonville for 30 days. Since being released from Brooks I have been under outpatient therapy twice a week for the last 3.5 years. I have also been involved with 2 separate SCI research studies with the Brooks Clinical Research Center. I have a passion for helping others with SCI achieve a better quality of life. Becoming involved in SCI research, I have to admit was a major stepping stone in my physical recovery and mental health thus far. Therefore, I feel passionate about helping others in the research process to better understand their SCI and learn about research, and potentially become engaged in the research process.
I am eager act as a liaison for others with all spinal cord injuries. I will bring my unique experiences and considerations into discussions to ease any potential burdens on research participants with SCI, such as transportation, communications, or anticipated concerns with study procedures. Having participated in research studies at the Brooks Clinical Research Center I have appreciated the way their team have engaged and prioritized helping everyone feel comfortable and informed. Communication between the research team and individuals participating seems to be a focus for your entire team.
I am committing to ongoing involvement in the SCI Community Health Research Partnership (SHARP) by attending regular meetings. Through this partnership, I hope to create pathways for researchers to get their findings to those with SCI who want to learn more. Overall, my personal experience post injury will be able to benefit this research and I look forward to being involved in this project.