Designed with the Kids in Mind
by Justine "Justice" Shorter (Communications '12)
Marquette Service Learners are truly changing lives through the creation of toys and assistive equipment for children served by the Milwaukee Center for Independence.
Associate Professor Dr. Barbra Silver-Thorn challenged students in her Rehabilitation Engineering course with the task of designing and building something that will aid children with disabilities. The class is primarily focused on Prosthetics, Orthotics, Seating and Positioning which makes it a perfect match for MCFI.
“The project involves working with certain toddlers who have various disabilities and coming up with toys or support aids that will meet their individual needs,” described Dr. Silver-Thorn.
Sara Nomeland, Graduate student, and Tim Gundert, Accelerated Masters Program, are two of Dr. Silver-Thorn’s students who chose to work on the project.
Tim and Sara are focused on building a chair or device that would specifically benefit children with gastric tubes and trakes which would make lying on their stomach far more comfortable.
“We’re thinking about making something that will help enhance their development and we’ll build it to the specifications of the PTs who work with these kids everyday,” said Sara.
Christine Boyce, Director of the MCFI Pediatric Special Care Unit, marveled at the dedication and dexterity of MU Service Learners.
“The students are doing an excellent job of analyzing and assessing the kids and what their specific needs are. Students are using their resources and knowledge to create something that doesn’t exist,” said Boyce.
Although Tim and Sara have grown fond of the children served by MCFI, they are acutely aware that their project could enhance the accessibility and rehabilitation of several children.
“When you get in there the situation is a little intense because so much is going on so we’re just trying to help in any way we can,” explained Tim.
Tim and Sara admitted that it feels good to know that they are actually making a difference and can’t wait to observe their lasting influence, “I’m excited and I know this will help the kids,” said Sara.
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