“My name is Hannah. I am currently 23 years old and participated in the studies when I was just starting high school and did several studies throughout my high school years. I have two amazing boys and an amazing support system.
Participating in the studies not only gave me more strength in my left side, but it gave me the ability and confidence to take care of my boys. If not for the studies and the therapy I received I don’t think I would have as much function as I do in my left hand. When I got approached to do the very first study I was definitely skeptical just because I didn’t think I would get a lot out of it. After the first one I was definitely intrigued and wanted to learn more and do more so that other people could get out of this what I was. I met so many amazing and kind people from doing these studies. Not only the staff like Bernadette, but also some other participants when doing the camp. Before starting I had limited function in my left hand. I was very use to and adapted to using my right hand for a lot of daily tasks. Now even years later I’ve now gotten the ability to use my left hand in the things I use to do with just my right. You never know when certain things come your way, but being approached and participating in these studies has been one of the best experiences and outcome for my life. I can do things now that I wasn’t able to do before and for that I say thank you.”
— Hannah, Study Participant
“When we were given the devastating news about Emma’s brain injury shortly after birth, neuroplasticity gave us hope. Emma’s remarkable recovery journey included many interventions but rehab therapies were vital. Participating in Dr. Gillick’s research camp was a fun way for Emma to receive cutting-edge therapy and give back to the therapy community that gave her so much.”
— Bridget, Mother of Study Participant
“The reason I got involved with the Gillick Lab Studies is that I wanted to contribute to the research to improve the lives of kids like me. I met new people and had fun while doing therapy which I always find helpful in keeping my right hand functioning at its best.”
— Emma, Study Participant
“We enjoyed working with Bernadette and her team’s research efforts by having our daughter participate in several different assessments. Every single team member was always welcoming, kind, and sincere in the work they were doing. They were very flexible at accommodating our schedules and even stayed in the lab past midnight to complete a test while our daughter (finally) fell asleep! Their humor and compassion added to the positive experience and we have enjoyed staying in touch throughout the years.”
— Amanda and Eric S., Parents of Infant Participant
“Working with Bernadette and her team was a great experience. They were very flexible and adjusted things to fit our needs. I felt very welcomed in their lab.”
— Parent of Infant with Perinatal Stroke
“[I’d like to share that I have] the ability to work with what the man upstairs gave me. Worked at my dream job in high school and pushed myself to get into the career I wanted (lots of challenges). Mom and Dad are my biggest supporters always said there is no I can’t it’s always I can.”
Why did I get involved in the Gillick Lab Studies? “It was new and different it might not help me, but i hope it might make a difference in someone else’s life/future.”
What did I like about being involved in research? “Education and meeting people and hearing their stories!”
What are my recommendations or other thoughts? “Keep on doing what you do best Research! And most importantly have fun doing it.”
— Dalton, Study Participant
“It was a privilege to work with such enthusiastic individuals, I learned a lot and was happy to contribute to this research.” — Torrey, Mother of Infant Participant
“More information is never a bad thing, learn more, why not participate?” — Mother of infant participant in the NICU