Most 15 year-olds measure their lives in school semesters and sports seasons. My life changed when I started to measure my life in motor function. Watching my mother navigate a degenerative motor-system disorder was like watching a real life movie of what happens in the nervous system of a person with a neurological disorder. As a competitive rower, I was used to pushing my body to its absolute limit-relying on the seamless connection between my brain's intent and my muscle's response. But at home, I witnessed the "disconnect." I saw how Parkinson's and MS don't just attack the body; they attack the rhythm of a family. This disconnect wasn't only prevalent in my mother but also my Uncle who struggles with MS and my Grandfather whom has Parkinson's. Without even realizing it I was surrounded by people who were struggling with these neurological studies my whole life but I soon realized I was not alone. There are over 3.4 million high school students in the United States serving as caregivers. We are a "hidden population" of overlooked individuals who are trying to balance academics, athletics, and being a caregiver to our loved ones. I looked for a bridge between the high-level research happening at places like Yale and the daily struggles of these families. When I couldn't find one, I decided to build it.

We aren't just waiting for a cure; we are researching the lifestyle interventions that improve quality of life today. Whether I am at my suture pad, on the ergometer, or in the lab, my goal remains the same: to protect the Motor Mind.