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Lab honoring Russell to research SIDS prevention
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| | | At the entrance to the new Brady William Russell Laboratory on Friday were, from left, SBUMC CEO Dr. Steven Strongwater, Sean, Maryellen and Molly Russell, and Dr. Margaret McGovern. Photo by Jennifer Choi (click for larger version) | |
June 24, 2009 | 02:57 PM
Stony Brook University Medical Center on Friday dedicated a new laboratory for neonatal research in honor of Brady William Russell, a child born prematurely who died of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome in 2006.
Joined by Brady's parents, Sean and Maryellen Russell of Setauket and their 5-year-old daughter Molly, SBUMC officials unveiled the Brady William Russell Laboratory in the Department of Pediatrics, which will be devoted to the study of fetal lung development and neonatal lung disease. The laboratory was created through the Brady William Russell Memorial Fund, established to conduct research into neonatal complications from high-risk pregnancies, premature birth and SIDS, and a $250,000 grant secured with the help of Sen. John Flanagan (R-East Northport).
"By turning their personal tragedy into a lasting tribute to young Brady William Russell," said Flanagan this week, "the Russell family is bringing hope to many Long Island families."
Born on Jan. 26, 2006, Brady was six weeks premature and initially faced respiratory complications, according to university officials. Discharged from the hospital five weeks after being treated for pneumonia and a respiratory virus, Brady died of SIDS 10 days after returning home. SIDS, a complex, multifactoral disorder, continues to be the most common cause of infant death, accounting for about 25 percent of all deaths between the ages of 1 month and 1 year, officials said. Current research in the Russell laboratory is focused on lung growth and development and their relationship to neonatal lung disease.
"The establishment of the Brady William Russell Laboratory will further advance this research and help establish a firm foundation for translational projects that will use both genetic and pharmacological interventions for the promotion of lung development in the neonate," Chair of Pediatrics Dr. Margaret McGovern said in a statement. Friday Dr. McGovern said Brady's story is a "powerful motivator for us to be better" and promised the Russells that she and her staff will "make you proud to have this lab named after your son."
"To listen to someone say that time heals all wounds is to listen to someone who has never lost a child," Sean Russell said. "It is our hope that this lab will be our son's legacy and that the work done here will mark a turning point in the battle against illnesses that afflict [children]."
Research conducted through the Brady Russell fund and laboratory includes studies to identify the genetic basis of fetal lung development, according to university officials. To date, SBUMC investigators have found evidence that the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductor gene plays a role in normal lung development. The laboratory also supports research being carried out by neonatology fellows who have presented their findings at national meetings. These studies have included investigations of the effect of oxygen administration on the newborn lung and the subsequent impact on the development of infections and chronic lung disease.
Directed gifts to the Russell Fund will support basic and clinical research, lectures within the medical center and community outreach to raise awareness. For information or to make a contribution, call the SBUMC Advancement Office at 444-9249 or visit www.stonybrook.edu/giving.
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