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Entry into the AT field:
1974 Masters Project related to
measuring interface pressures for pressure ulcer prevention
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How I got into the
field
BSc Physics, PhD Biomedical
engineering. Research for PhD related to interface pressure
measurement
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Important event(s) that influenced
my early decision to get into the assistive technology field
A summer internship at Rancho Los Amigos Hospital
in 1975
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Why I chose the AT
field
I love building links between
conventional physical sciences and problems related to disability.
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My inspiration and
mentor
Robert Kenedi, Head
Bioengineering Unit at Strathclyde University, Glasgow UK and Jim Reswick,
Director Rehabilitation Engineering Rancho Los Amigos Hospital, CA,
USA.
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Why the field is important to me
and the central focus of my work
Problems are very challenging both scientifically
and socio-economically
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My memorable successes and
greatest contributions to the field
Attempt to build the first expert system in rehab
(CUSHFIT) for supporting wheelchair cushion assessment and helping to establish
the Center for Rehabilitation Technology at Helen Hayes Hospital. Such a great
team of change agents!
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My most memorable
failures
You can always learn so I
don't see them as failures, just challenges.
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Significant changes and advances
in the field since I first entered it
The role of clinical professionals in the
delivery of rehabilitation technology services, FES, gait analysis, Aug Comm.,
pressure mapping, accreditation (ATP), using MRI in our field. They have
changed attitudes in society to what people with disabilities can
accomplish.
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On the future of rehabilitation
engineering and assistive technology
A new
wave of technology development to support seniors aging in place
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My role within RESNA and what it
gave back to me
Pivotal role in
putting the science and engineering into the field
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On the future of RESNA
Creating a new emphasis on innovative and AT
science to support aging population
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My suggestions for those just
entering the field
Go for it, work
hard, be persistent, keep striving for goals slightly out of reach. Keep the
user and their family at the center of your thinking.
