Bright Ideas Grant Recipients 2024
The Charlies Foundation for Research celebrated and congratulated five outstanding researchers during Research Week, awarding them the 2024 Bright Ideas Grants. Each project will receive funding of up to $10,000 to advance patient-centred healthcare at Sir Charles Gairdner and Osborne Park Hospitals. These grants would not be possible without our generous community of supporters. 💙
This year's recipients represent a diverse range of healthcare disciplines, from occupational therapy to intensive care, demonstrating the breadth of innovation happening across our hospitals.
Bright Ideas Grants Recipients
Advanced Cancer Surveillance
Dr Aaron Rusnak
Dr Aaron from Endocrine Surgery is conducting vital research on thyroglobulin levels during surveillance for recurrent and metastatic thyroid cancer. This study could improve how we monitor and treat thyroid cancer patients.
Technology-Enhanced Patient Movement
Rachel Lommerzheim
Rachel from Occupational Therapy is investigating whether a technology-assisted functional maintenance intervention can increase patient movement in hospital. This observational pilot study could improve how we approach patient mobility.
Virtual Cognitive Assessment
Toni Heinemann
Toni from Occupational Therapy is studying the validity and reliability of the Oxford Digital Multiple Errands Test (OxMET) in hospital. This project aims to advance virtual assessment of executive function.
Predicting Neurological Complications
Dr Lipi Mishra
Dr Lipi's ICU research examines the predictive accuracy of Anti-Cardiolipin Antibodies, Antithrombin Deficiency, D-dimer and ROTEM in delayed cerebral ischaemia following aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage. This pilot prospective observational study could provide important insights into better patient outcomes.
Optimising Critical Care Nutrition
Bianca Mammana
Bianca from Dietetics is comparing measured versus estimated energy needs in critically ill patients with suspected infections. This feasibility study could improve how we optimise nutritional requirements for our most vulnerable patients.
