2011 The Ward Family Foundation Summer Student Endowment Program
Thank you The 2011 students of the Ward Family Foundation Summer Student Endowment Program would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Ward Family. The funding provided by the Ward Family Endowment Program has enabled us to work with top scientists in the field of disability research, and has made us aware of the infinite possibilities that this research creates for children with disabilities. The photos and reflections contained within these pages capture just a glimpse of our tremendous experience this past summer at the Bloorview Research Institute. We are all extremely grateful for this unique opportunity. Whatever path we take, our experience at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, as well as the support we received from the Ward Family, our supervisors, the staff, parents and children at Holland Bloorview, will no doubt have a profound effect on our future career paths.
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About this book This book is a token of appreciation for the Ward Family, whose generous donations made the Ward Family Foundation Summer Student Endowment Program possible. The following pages outline the work done by the summer students of 2011 and capture some of the memories made that summer.
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Ty Berry Education: Present: University of Western Ontario, Electrical Engineering – Biomedical Signals and Systems Option Supervisor: Elaine Biddiss Research Project: I have helped to various degrees in multiple projects. They include studying movement patterns in children with cerebral palsy during active video gaming, and testing a glove device that uses bendable sensors to detect and measure wrist movement in children with cerebral palsy. What this program has meant to me: Working at Holland Bloorview this summer has allowed me to explore the world of research, meet a wide array of people working on all kinds of interesting projects, and learn about a lot of new, exciting ideas in the field while enhancing my own research skills. Future Aspirations: In the future, I hope to combine my engineering skills with my interests in research and medicine to help develop innovative ways to solve health-related problems and improve health care.
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Jessica Bihari Education: Present: Ryerson University, Nutrition and Food Supervisor: Barbara Gibson Research Project: For the course of the summer, I was involved in conducting a literature review on the use of electronic interviewing in qualitative research. This research benefited the CIHR Team on Optimal Environments for Severely Disabled Youth. The research findings from this study will hopefully allow researchers to pinpoint some of the barriers this population faces in the environment around them when participating in activities. This research project fits under the participation and inclusion theme of the research institute. What this program has meant to me: This program has given me the opportunity to work amongst some of the most talented co-workers, scientists, and educators I have ever met. It has given me the opportunity to learn about a marginalized population and see the value these individuals have to offer to society if there was enough funding and support for their diverse needs. Future Aspirations: In the future, I hope to complete my Master of Public Health and become a public health dietitian. In relation to my future career, this summer opportunity has let me learn about the social, financial, environmental, and political barriers that these families must navigate through in order to survive and care for their loved ones. Getting access to healthy food should not be a concern for them, but a right. As a public health dietitian, I want to advocate for marginalized, low income populations and create policy changes regarding access to healthy food.
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Guillaume Carrot Education: 2007-2008: CPGE Claude Fauriel Present: Polytechnic school of engineering of the university Joseph Fourier Specialty: Health Information Technology Supervisor: Tom Chau and Azadeh Kushki Research Project: I worked on the automation of the measurement of social function in children with ASD using their voice biometrics. I have created a device that is able to record for how long and how often the child talked using a voice recognition system. What this program has meant to me: Working at Holland Bloorview this summer has given me the opportunity to discover a new country and a new culture. It has also allowed me to learn more about research and to do concrete engineering work. It was an amazing experience and I am really glad I was able to do this program. Future Aspirations: In the future, I hope to graduate from engineering school and do my masters in management. I would also like to be able to run projects in order to improve Health Techniques.
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Adrienne Chan Education: University of Western Ontario, Honours Specialization in Rehabilitation Science of 2013 Supervisor: Gillian King and Patty Rigby Research Project: I conducted two annotated bibliographies for the project, “Optimal Environment for Severely Disabled Youth and Their Experiences in Activity Settings�. One focused on the factors of optimal environments for severely disabled youth and the other on the experiences of severely disabled youth in activity settings. Through a literature review, I conducted a thematic analysis of the relevant publications to develop category headings to organize the collected publications. What this program has meant to me: The placement at Holland Bloorview has allowed me to gain a more concrete understanding of the gap between clinical rehabilitation (whether it is physical or occupational therapy) and its basis in research initiatives. The lunch and learns and Grand Rounds introduced me to many innovative research projects helping me establish connections between the clinical world of rehabilitation and the realm of lectures and textbooks. The working experience at the Bloorview Research Institute has broken many stereotypes of what research entails. Through this program, I would like to someday bridge the gap between user needs and the direction in which research is headed. Future Aspirations: For the future, I hope to combine my clinical aspirations of becoming a practicing physiotherapist with research initiatives to enhance techniques used to optimize rehabilitation.
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Jennifer Chan Education: Will attend: University of Toronto, Engineering Science Supervisor: Tom Chau and Bassma Ghali Research Project: I have helped in a variety of projects, with different aspects of each project. The two main projects I have worked on are investigating grip kinetics in handwriting for signature authentication and determining how posture is related to handwriting. What this program has meant to me: Participating in this program has helped me gain a broader perspective of the different aspects of research, specifically research into child rehabilitation. Aside from solely focusing on the work that I have been doing, I have learned a lot about other issues related to disability and child rehabilitation through Lunch n’ Learn and BRIFF sessions. Future Aspirations: In the future, I hope to go into a research related profession in biomedical engineering where I will be able to apply problem solving and critical thinking skills to help people in need.
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Stephanie Cheung Education: Currently completing B.Eng in Electrical and Biomedical Engineering at McMaster University. Supervisor: Elaine Biddiss Research Project: I have been working on the Biosongs study, which involves converting physiological data into music to create an auditory, anxiety-monitoring tool. I have been involved in developing the computer program which creates these songs. Throughout the summer, I have also performed data collection to determine the effectiveness and usability of the music. What this program has meant to me: This experience has allowed me to gain knowledge and experience from a wealth of sources. Through working on the Biosongs project, attending the seminars, and speaking with the other summer students, I have come to appreciate the importance of the work done at Holland Bloorview and the dedication it takes to turn any idea into reality. Future Aspirations: I have become much more interested in rehabilitation engineering this summer, and I hope to continue in this field in the future.
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Ashley Edwards Education: 2011: Bachelor of Arts, Honours Social Development Studies (University of Waterloo) Present: Bachelor of Social Work, Honours (Post-BA Degree) Supervisor: Sally Lindsay Research Project: This summer I worked on several projects, primarily on “A Systematic Review of Disability Interventions for Children and Youth”. However, I also had the opportunity to work on several other projects including a comparison of bullying interventions, qualitative data analysis, literature reviews, and teachers’ experiences of working with students with disabilities, particularly autism. What this program has meant to me: Working as a Summer Student at Bloorview Research Institute has been an amazing experience. I have learned the importance of the intersection between research and clinical practice and application. I’ve really enjoyed attending Lunch & Learn and seminar series to learn about not only other areas of research, but practice as well. I have learned a variety of skills that I believe are very applicable to my future goals from my work and the people around me, such as my supervisor and fellow students. Future Aspirations: This fall, I am returning to school to obtain a post-graduate degree in Social Work. This ten month program will further prepare me to pursue my Masters in Social Work. After participating in the Summer Student Program here at Bloorview Research Institute, I have become even more interested in furthering my education and pursuing a career where I can work in both clinical and research practice in a pediatric hospital or rehabilitation setting.
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Lydie Faure Education: 2005 : Portes de l’Oisans High School, High School Graduation diploma in Science; 2009 : Joseph Fourier University, 2-year general degree in Biology and Computer science; Present : Polytech’Grenoble engineering school, Information Technologies for Health Care Supervisors: Tom Chau and Azadeh Kushki Research Project: I have worked in the field of human presence detection. The aim of my internship consisted in developing a sensor able to quantify autistic children interactions over a long period of time. After a background research, I have been able to work with infrared technologies (a webcam converted in an infrared camera), and also with a humidity sensor. My work has eventually included a data collection step, followed by signal processing with Matlab. What this program has meant to me: Working at Holland Bloorview this summer has given me the opportunity to improve my skills in several fields, such as electronics, data processing, project management, and communication. This internship has also allowed me to work in autonomy and get initiatives as part of a research team. I have enjoyed the fact of working in a hospital dedicated to children with disabilities. This experience has shown me how I can use my technical skills to benefit the health of children. Future Aspirations: In the future, I hope to use my technical knowledge and skills to serve the medical field and improve the lives of people suffering from various diseases or disability. My experience at Holland Bloorview has been the perfect working environment to learn in this field.
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Richard Gao Education: Present: University of Toronto, Engineering Science Program at Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering, Class of 2013 Supervisor: Tom Chau Research Project: My project mainly involved wireless sensor development, graphic user interface programming, and analyzing physiological data for the Optimal Environment Project, which aims to study and improve the social inclusion of youths with communication difficulties. I have also helped with experiment setup and data collection for the Autism Study. What this program meant to me: Working at Holland Bloorview this summer allowed me to see firsthand where the innovative technology developed in biomedical engineering labs goes towards helping people. Aside from the research experience I gained, my stay here also provided me with more tangible objectives to research and academia, where it’s inspiring and motivating to realize the tremendous potential biomedical research has. Future Aspirations: In the future, I hope to cross the gap between neuroscience, psychology, and bioengineering and explore the human brain in a truly interdisciplinary fashion.
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Falisha Karpati Education: Present: University of Toronto, Neuroscience, Psychology, and Biology (H.B.Sc.) Supervisor: Unni Narayanan Research Project: I have been working on development and testing of the Gait Outcomes Assessment List (GOAL) questionnaire, which is a patient-priority based outcome measure for children with ambulatory cerebral palsy. What this program has meant to me: Working in this program has been an amazing experience. In addition to learning valuable research skills which will set a strong foundation for my future education and career, I have made many connections with researchers and other professionals whom I hope will continue to teach and motivate me throughout my future research endeavors. Future Aspirations: After completing my H.B.Sc. degree, I plan to pursue further education in neuroscience with the goal of obtaining a career in neuroscience research.
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Linda Megne Kungne Education: 2011: Polytech’Grenoble de l’Université Joseph Fourier Supervisors: Tom Chau and Sanaz Rezaei Research Project: This summer I worked on a pilot project called “investigation interpersonal physiologic”. The goal of this project is to determine the synchrony between two people and to quantitatively measure their emotions. My contribution in this project was to set up the devices that are going to be used for this study and to ensure that clean signals are received from the participants. I was given the opportunity to work on both hard ware (sensor, connections, etc.) and software (Programming sensor and synchronizing signals, etc). What this program has meant to me: Working at Holland Bloorview this summer has allowed me to gain further experience in research and has allowed me to have an international experience. I have also been able to improve my English skills. It also helped me use new systems and practice my knowledge in IT. I!participated!in the improvement of the life of disabled children!and their families. Future Aspirations: I hope through science and new technology, I can participate in the evolution of Biomedical and biotechnology sciences by innovating new methods. My experience at Holland Bloorview has enriched my future career and made me realize!that medical sciences!need!scientists.
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Tony Liu Education: Present: University of Toronto. BSc (Honours). Specializing in Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology Supervisor: Tom Chau and Eric Wan Research Project: The focus of my summer research is to investigate Transient Evoked Otoacoustic Emission (TEOAE) as a potential access pathway for communication. Preliminary results have been very promising. We are able to see significant differences between attention conditions in our TEOAE data. This is only the first step as we try to design an automatic classification system to translate attention into an alternative communication pathway. What this program has meant to me: The world (and I say this in all seriousness). This summer lab position has exposed me to the engineering side of science. I viewed this as a great opportunity to learn and to contribute to the field of rehab engineering. Along the way, I have discovered a passion to engineer, many wonderful people and the best summer job yet. Future Aspirations: A clinician.
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Melissa Lui Education: 2010: Queen’s University, Bachelor of Computing (Honours) Specialization in Biomedical Computing Present: University of Alberta, Doctor of Medicine Supervisor: Tom Chau and Julie Chan Research Project: My project for this summer was to develop an iPod application that would become the means of communication. Using the concept of single switch scanning, clients using the application can access different phrases of their choice and have the ability to vocalize their thoughts. What this program has meant to me: This summer was the second time I worked in the PRISM Lab. Once again, the lab does not cease to amaze me with the impactful research that arises. However, this time around, I was given the opportunity to shadow multiple physicians in light of the degree I am currently pursuing. Through this experience I was able to bring together the importance of research and medicine. Future Aspirations: In the future, I hope to be able to collaborate with people like Tom Chau in order to give the best medical care to the public.
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Alexandra Marquis Education: University of Guelph, Bachelor of Arts: Psychology, minor Sociology of 2012 Supervisor: Nancy Thomas-Stonell Research Project: I worked on the final phase of the FOCUS (Focus on the Outcomes of Communication Under Six) project that assessed the validity of the outcome measure for pre school children. I transcribed video data of speech-language therapy of pre-school children. What this program has meant to me: This program has allowed me to gain great experience in the research field. I was able to expand my knowledge on the process of research projects and the seminars and conferences continued to develop my understanding of pediatric health. Learning about the current topics being examined in Holland Bloorview, other leading universities and hospitals was a beneficial experience that I will never forget. I thoroughly enjoyed working in a hospital environment like Holland Bloorview. Future Aspirations: I would like to gain some clinical experience as well, as I do wish to work with children when I finish university. I am hoping to attend graduate school in the fall of 2012.
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Gary Pechoux Education: 2006: Baccalauréat (High School Graduation diploma) in Science. (Lycée St Marc, Lyon, France) 2006-2008: PCEP1: First year pharmaceutical at University Claude Bernard – Lyon. 2008-2009: L2: Second year student in Biochemistry and Computer science (University Claude Bernard – Lyon, France). Present: Polytech’Grenoble engineering school (Joseph Fourier University – Grenoble, France), Information Technologies for Health Care. Expected graduation: 2012. Supervisor: Tom Chau Research Project: My project in the Prism Lab was to determine the relationship between one or more optical illusions and the physiological signals of the person. I have observed more precisely when the illusion was broken (this is when we do not notice the illusion) and deduce when this phenomenon was attributed to physiological (determination of characteristic peaks). What this program has meant to me: Working at Holland Bloorview this summer has allowed me to gain experience in the world of work especially in research. It has allowed me to apply in practice all that I have learnt previously in my engineering school. However I would like to thank my coworkers because without the help of my supervisor or qualified engineers, this work could not have been accomplished. Future Aspirations: I hope to use this experience in my future projects to further improve my skills in the world of information technology for health.
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Brenna Singer Education: 2007-2011: Queen’s University. Bachelors of Arts Honours. Health Studies major. 2011-2013: University of Western Ontario. Masters of Clinical Science. Speech-Language Pathology. Supervisor: Steve Ryan Research Project: The objective of the main project I have been working on this summer is to measure the responsiveness of the Writing Mechanics Index (WMI) to changes in writing performance when word prediction programs are introduced. I have also been involved in organizing the database for a project looking at AAC device abandonment. What this program has meant to me: Through this program, I have expanded my knowledge in research, especially toward a topic that is of particular interest to me. The program has also enabled me to observe some of the remarkable services offered by Holland Bloorview. The program has especially contributed to my understanding of how the research we are doing can actually be applied in clinical settings. Future Aspirations: Upon the completion of my masters degree I intend on becoming a Speech-Language Pathologist. I hope to incorporate my knowledge of research into my future clinical practice or to possibly extend my education further with a research focus.
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Priya Sivarajah Education: Present: University of Toronto, Neuroscience Specialist (Honours) Supervisor: Virginia Wright Research Project: This summer, I learned about the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI) and the WeeFIM (Functional Independence Measure) Instruments. These instruments are well-known generic measures of functional outcome, and can be used to measure changes in functional abilities of patients in treatment settings. For my project, I compared the baseline PEDI-II and WeeFIM scores to find any differences in score levels, administration times and perceived ease of administration. I also tried to discern any potential differences in the calibration and related interpretation of scores. Knowledge of the calibration differences between the two measures facilitates accurate interpretation of patients’ independence by clinical teams that use the WeeFIM for some kids and the PEDI (I and II) for others. This information is also critical to permit proper comparative interpretation of published results. What this program has meant to me: Working at Holland Bloorview this summer has allowed me to gain my first research experience. I was able to meet and work closely with my supervisor, Virginia Wright, who has guided me through the research process as well as clinical tools that are used to evaluate functional changes in the pediatric population. In addition to this, I was able to learn through the BRIFF, the portrayal and common stereotypes of disability prevalent in our society. Future Aspirations: In the future, I wish to combine my medical aspirations with clinical research in pediatric rehabilitation.
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Cecilia Smith Education: 2006: Seneca College, Early Childhood Education Present: York University, Bilingual BA Psychology (honors) Supervisor: Jessica Brian and Evdokia Anagnostou Research Project: This summer I have been working on the Stepping Stones Triple P parent training in collaboration with Dori Zener and Davina Tiwari in the social work area. We were examining the effectiveness of the program for parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). What this program has meant to me: This program has provided me invaluable research experience. It has extended my understanding of the relationship between research and clinical work. I have enjoyed watching assessments and learning how children are diagnosed with autism. This experience has brought me closer to my future goals and has made me a more well-rounded advocate within the ASD field. Future Aspirations: In the future, I hope to combine my clinical aspirations with research. It is nice being involved in the immerging knowledge within your field. Holland Bloorview has definitely broadened my experience and has enriched my future career.
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Sarah Stoops Education: 2008 – 2012: University of Toronto Electrical and Computer Engineering Supervisor: Tom Chau Research Project: This summer I worked on enhancing a previously designed access pathway switch. The smile switch is a program developed with a particular client in mind whom has control over mouth movement, yet limited other motor movement. By using the smile switch the client is able to interact with augmented or assisted communication devices. The previous smile switch was not reliable and did not function acceptably. By analyzing the previous algorithm I was able to determine why the switch was often failing. In order to solve the solution of creating a more reliable smile switch I changed the programs method to determine a smile. What this program has meant to me: This summer I have attained not only a deeper understanding of the research field, but also a deeper understanding of the need for accessible technologies and devices. It has been an inspiration to be around so many research students who are passionate about the same things as me. In addition, the encouragement and motivation from all those around me has challenged me to do the best job I could possibly do. Future Aspirations: In the future I hope to design applications and technologies to be used by impaired or disabled individuals. This summer program has enhanced my enthusiasm for helping those around me.
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Judy Tran Education: Present: University of Toronto (St. George) – Third Year Student; Specialist in Immunology, Major in Human Biology, and Minor in Writing and Rhetoric Supervisors: Patty Rigby and Virginia Wright Research Project: I have been involved in two different projects this summer. The first study was an environmental scan that consisted of conducting surveys and interviews of clinical managers at different children’s rehabilitation centres across Canada. The purpose of this scan was to gain a better understanding of the use of two standardized outcome measures, the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI) and the WeeFIMŽ Instrument. The results will be used to encourage therapists to use these instruments to assess young children with cerebral palsy and/or developmental delay. The second project was a comprehensive review of the different environmental assessment tools currently available to evaluate child and youth settings. I worked on a critique of these assessment tools in order to help therapists determine the overall clinical utility and effectiveness for use in pediatric rehabilitation. What this program has meant to me: The Ward Family Summer Student Research Program has been my first experience in research. Not only has this program allowed me to become more aware of issues concerning accessibility in the community, but it has also challenged me to constantly question common stereotypes surrounding disabled persons and contributed to my overall growth as an individual. Finally, my experience at Holland Bloorview this summer has been a wonderful encouragement for me to become an active, caring, and worthy member of the community. Future Aspirations: I would like to try and keep my career options open, but I am currently considering pursuing a career in research or pediatric rehabilitation.
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Wen Yan Xie BMSc Education: 2010: University of Western Ontario, BMSc, Honours Specialization in Physiology, Minor Pharmacology Present: University of Toronto - Medicine Supervisor: Darcy Fehlings Research Project: My project focuses on the prevalence and impact of pain in children and youth with Cerebral Palsy (CP) as well as the agreement between clinician and parent/proxy reports of pain in this population. I am also involved in a variety of other projects including a project which looks at how treatment of spasticity in children with CP affects the amount of pain they feel. What this program has meant to me: Working at Holland Bloorview this summer has allowed me to see how research can be integrated into clinical aspects of a physician’s practice. I have realized that while research does take a significant amount of time away from clinical practice, there is an irreplaceable excitement that comes with being at the frontline of scientific discovery. Future Aspirations: In the future, I hope to have the opportunity to explore a career as a clinician scientist.
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Anna Yu Education: University of Toronto, Bachelor of Applied Science - Engineering Science Biomedical Major Supervisor: Tom Chau Research Project: My project this summer revolves around a novel access pathway switch – the head movement switch. In particular, I worked with a number of students at the Sunny View School under the Infinity Lab Project to assess the viability of such a switch for the students while improving the reliability and usability of this product. What this program has meant to me: The summer research program at Holland Bloorview has opened my eyes to the world of pediatric rehabilitation and has truly been a unique and unforgettable experience. It has further solidified my career aspirations to work in the field of pediatrics. Working here has been more than just a 9 to 5 job; I have been inspired daily by the people at Holland Bloorview and will continue to be inspired by the work that is being done here. Thank you for this opportunity! Future Aspirations: I hope to continue to work in the field of health care in the future, either as a doctor or as a clinical engineer. There is still much work to be done to improve the quality of life of kids with disabilities and to fully empower them to experience life to the fullest.
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Emily Yung Education: University of Western Ontario, Honours Specialization in Rehabilitation Sciences (Scholar's Electives Program) Supervisor: Amy McPherson Research Project: My summer research project studied how weight and weight status are documented in medical records of children and youth with spinal bifida attending an out-patient clinic here at Holland Bloorview. It involved looking at how medical charts recorded information discussing the history and advice/concerns of weight management, diet, physical and sedentary activity with children and their families. What this program has meant to me: Having the opportunity to work at the Bloorview Research Institute has been a blessing and a privilege – it has given me a varied learning experience in the field of pediatric rehabilitation, exposing me to the dynamic process of research (from a glimpse of ethics approval, to data collection and analysis, to finally making connections about the results found). As well, this program has allowed me to see the diversity in research as the questions to find answers for are endless. I hope to use the skills and knowledge that I’ve gained here to enable my future pursuit of improving healthcare, one step at a time. Future Aspirations: In my future, I hope to work in the field of psychotherapy and counseling with possibly medicine. I would like to care for people’s emotional needs which are a component to their health and well-being.
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Nevena Zivkovic Education: Queen’s University Life Sciences (Honours) 2013 Supervisor: Gillian King Research Project: My research project is primarily related to the Self-Reported Experiences of Activity Settings (SEAS) and the Self-Reported Experiences of Activity Settings – Picture Communication Symbols Version (SEAS-PCS). I created a response form so that participants knowledgeable in PCS can rate the equivalency of SEAS and SEAS-PCS and provide suggestions for improvement. This will help ensure that the SEAS-PCS is comprehended appropriately. What this program has meant to me: This experience has exposed me to brilliant scientists who taught me so much about the research world. I helped design a study, wrote an ethics proposal, and worked in an interdisciplinary research team. I sincerely thank the Ward family for making this learning opportunity possible. Future Aspirations: In the future, I hope to become a pediatrician. My experience at Holland Bloorview has opened my eyes to issues faced by disabled children in today’s society.
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BRIFF
Lunch n’ Learn
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PAST SUMMER STUDENTS
Past Ward Summer Students -Where are they now? Name: Navneet Binepal Year: 2010 Project: Identifying Risk Factors Associated with Pain in Children and Youth with Cerebral Palsy Publications/Presentations: -Active data collection in progress - Scientific poster presented at CP Cell to Person Conference/ NeuroDevNet/Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital May 13, 2011 Where are they now: Navneet is finishing up her last year of medical school at University of Toronto Name: Danielle D’Alessandro Year: 2010 Project: Responsiveness of a Writing Performance Measure for Students with Writing Impairments: Part 1 Where are they now: Danielle has been accepted into MSc program in Speech- Language Pathology at the University of Toronto in Fall 2011. Name: Nisha Rajendran Year: 2010 Project: How do youth and parent views about youth’s quality of life differ? A literature reivew. Where are they now: Nisha has been working here as a research assistant since 2010 and will be going to London, England in the fall of 2011 to start a Master’s program in epidemiology. Name: Suzanne Robinson Year: 2010 Project: Employer’s perspective of working with youth with disabilities. Publications/Presentations: Lindsay S, Robinson S, Mcdougall C, Sanford R, Adams T. Employers’ perspectives of working with adolescents with disabilities. International Journal of Disability, Community & Rehabilitation. (under review) Robinson S, Lindsay S, Mcdougall C, Sanford R. (2011) Improving inclusion and employment opportunities for youth with disabilities: employers’ perceptions. Ontario Association on Developmental Disabilities’ Research Special Interest Group. St. Catherine’s April 7. (**First prize for best poster)** Robinson, S., Lindsay, S., McDougall, C., Sanford, R., Adams, T. (2010) Employment among adolescents with disabilities. Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Occupational Therapy Awareness Day, October 14. Where are they now: Suzanne has gone back to school to complete her Masters and PhD in clinical psychology at York University. She won an Ontario Graduate Scholarship to complete this.
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Name: Jomy Varghese Year: 2010 Project: Wearable wrist movement monitor for functional evaluation of children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy Publications/Presentations: Jomy collected data that eventually was included in the following publication: J. Howcroft, D. Fehlings, K. Zabjek, L. Fay, J. Liang, E. Biddiss. “Wearable Wrist Activity Monitor as an Indicator of Functional Hand Use in Children with Cerebral Palsy.” Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology. In press. Where are they now: Jomy completed a biomedical engineering master’s degree at Oxford University and will be attending medical school this year at Loyola University. Name: Lauren Wallis Year: 2010 Project: How any trials are needed on the Quality FM to give a representative picture of a child’s quality of movement? Publications/Presentations: Lauren’s poster from her Ward project was accepted at the World Congress of Physical Therapy in Amsterdam in June 2011. Where are they now: Lauren will be starting the MSc Physical Therapy program at McMaster University in September 2011. Name: Jamie Young Year: 2010 Project: Evaluating the Convergent and Discriminant Validity of the FOCUS (Focus on the!Outcomes of!Communication!Under!Six) Where are they now: Jamie has finished HBSc in developmental psychology and has!applied for a Research Assistant position with Shauna Kingsnorth Name: Lauren Fehlings Year: 2009 Project: Content validity of the Youth Evaluation of Products Scale for Children with Mobility Impairments Where are they now: Lauren has been accepted into MScOT program at the University of Toronto in Fall 2011. Name: Layla Hall Year: 2009 Project: Autistic-like regression in early onset epilepsy: A review of 6 cases Where are they now: Layla is currently doing her PhD in Clinical Psychology at Queens. Name: Stephanie Hanson Year: 2008 & 2009 Project: 1) Assessment of Children’s Capacity to Consent for Research: A Descriptive Qualitative Pilot Study of Researchers’ Practices and REBs’ Expectations; 2) Toward Understanding the Product Preferences of Young Manual Wheelchair Users Publications/Presentations: Presented at the ‘Bloorview Summer Student Research Symposium’ in 2008 and 2009 Where are they now: Stephanie has just completed a Master of Arts degree at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto and is registered with the College of Early Childhood Educators, as well as a registered primary/junior teacher with the Ontario College of Teachers. Stephanie is currently working on a research project at Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) at the University of Toronto. Stephanie has continued to work for Barbara Gibson since 2008.
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Name: Mark Miller Year: 2009 Project: Identifying Risk Factors Associated with Pain in Children and Youth with Cerebral Palsy Publications/Presentations: Active data collection in progress Where are they now: Mark is starting his residency in Orthopedic surgery at the University of Toronto. Name: Alyssa Randall Year: 2009 Project: Development and evaluation of orthotic knee joint stance-phase control mechanisms Where are they now: Alyssa is working on her Master through the University of Calgary. Name: Anushi!Sivarajah Year: 2009 Project: Anushi helped to coordinate the administration of an on-line and mail out survey to more than 400 parents of children and youth who received Writing Aids services at Holland Bloorview. Publications/Presentations: Anushi's summer project made an important contribution to our research program that develops ways to!detect the impact of assistive!devices!on the lives of!children with disabilities!and their families. Her research protocol was presented at the Ward Summer Student Research Day and the survey results were presented at Bloorview Research Institute Symposium in 2009. Where are they now: Anushi is in her second year of Medical School at the University of Toronto. Name: Samantha Young Year: 2009 Project: Assessment of the Correspondence Between Qualitative Observations of Change and Improvements in FOCUS (Focus on the!Outcomes ofCommunication!Under!Six) Scores Where are they now: Samantha is now going into her 3rd!year!of medicine at the University of Toronto. Name: Payal Agarwal Year: 2008 Project: A Prospective Case Series Evaluating the Effectiveness of a Virtual Reality Therapy Home-based system to Improve Hand Function in Children with Hemiplegia; A Systematic Review: Informing Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Children with Cerebral Palsy at Risk for Osteoporosis Publications/Presentations: A poster was presented at the American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine conference in 2009 and won Best Scientific Poster and the abstract was published (outlined below). Fehlings D, Chau T, Agarwal P, Tam KL, Lam-Damji S, Switzer L, Hubley D: A prospective case series evaluating the effectiveness of a virtual reality therapy home-based system to improve hand function in children with hemiplegia. American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine, Scottsdale, AZ. Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology 2009: 51(S5): pp 55 Manuscript Accepted for Publication - Fehlings D, Switzer L, Agarwal P, Wong C, Sochett E, Stevenson R, Sonnenberg L, Smile S, Young E, Huber J, Milo-Manson G, Abu Kuwaik G, Gaebler D: A Systematic Review: Informing Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Children with Cerebral Palsy at Risk for Osteoporosis. Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology. Where are they now: Payal is completing Medical School at the University of Toronto
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Name: Kelly Hanlon Year: 2008 Project: Analysis of the Response to the ‘FOCUS’ (Focus on the!Outcomes of!Communication!Under!Six) Communication Outcome Measure Pilot data Where are they now: Kelly completed!her Masters in Psychology at Laurentian University, Psychometrist (part-time) at Holland Bloorview. Name: Anna Holland Year: 2008 Project: Reliability of a questionnaire to measure the attitudes of school-age children toward bicycle helmets: What do kids think about bike helmets? Where are they now: Anna is in her third year of Medical School at the University of Toronto. Name: Jennifer Irwin Year: 2008 Project: Development and testing of a gait event analysis system Where are they now: Jennifer has recently successfully defended her Masters thesis, and has been accepted to a PhD program at the University of Waterloo. Name: Patrick Pak Year: 2008 Project: Kids with fibromyalgia and structured exercise programs: What do parents think? A qualitative analysis. Where are they now: Patricia has received a masters in Biology from McMaster University in 2010. She is midway through the MSc Physical Therapy program at University of Toronto – graduates in July 2012. Name: Saleem Shaikh Year: 2008 Project: Walking study Publications/Presentations: Chang, M., Shaikh, S., Chau, T. (2009).!Effect of treadmill walking on the stride interval dynamics of human gait,!Gait & Posture,!30:431-435. Where are they now: Saleem is currently in Medical School. Name: Charles Wong Year: 2008 Project: An Evaluation of the Kinematic Dystonia Measure in Differentiating Children With and Without Hemiplegic Dystonia; A Systematic Review: Informing Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Children with Cerebral Palsy at Risk for Osteoporosis Publications/Presentations: Presented poster at the AACPDM conference in 2009. Published abstract - Kawamura A, Klejman S, Wong C, Fehlings D: Reliability of the kinematic dystonia measure (KDM) in children with upper extremity dystonia. American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine, Scottsdale, AZ. Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology 2009: 51(S5): pp 54 Meeting and peer reviewed publication for the KDM submitted to Archives of Rehabilitation Manuscript Accepted for Publication - Fehlings D, Switzer L, Agarwal P, Wong C, Sochett E, Stevenson R, Sonnenberg L, Smile S, Young E, Huber J, Milo-Manson G, Abu Kuwaik G, Gaebler D: A Systematic Review: Informing Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Children with Cerebral Palsy at Risk for Osteoporosis. Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology. Where are they now: Charles has been accepted to medical school at McMaster University.
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Name: Justin Chee Year: 2007 Project: Investigation of fatigue related to handwriting in Children Where are they now: Justin has completed his Masters in Rehabilitation Science (2011); commenced PhD program in Rehabilitation Science (UofT); and is funded by the NSERC Create Care program run by Tom Chau. Name: Gillian Lucas! Year: 2007 Project: Parent Observations of Change Following Speech Therapy Where are they now: Gillian is now practicing as a speech-language pathologist Name: Jenna Usprech Year: 2007 Project: Implementation of prosthetic generator Where are they now: Jenna has since completed her Masters and is now in a PhD program at the University of Toronto. Name: Laurie Graham Year: 2006 Project: Outcome measurement research in Speech-Language Pathology Where are they now: Laurie is now practicing as a Speech-Language Pathologist.
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