Science and Serendipity meet at triple S
Science Fair
When Edith Cowan University graduate Dr Leanne Monterosso set up her nursing display for the first time at this year's triple S Science Fair, she had no way of knowing that an example of one of her own scientific efforts would literally walk through the door.
Leanne, who specialises in neo-natal intensive care nursing, developed a special nappy and shoulder support roll for postural improvement in premature babies for her doctoral research. At the Fair, she set up an incubator with a small doll inside wearing her nappy and shoulder roll.
Children and
parents were really interested in the display," Leanne said. "And then
along came a father with his two children, one of whom was 'Amy' - a baby I'd
nursed in 1994.
"It was an amazing coincidence because Amy had been a trigger in starting my research. She was born 14 weeks premature, weighing only around 550gms, and had major health issues.
"I took a special interest in her case and once she started to walk, I noticed the typical posture of the premature baby and it motivated me to try to solve the problem.
"Amy, while still tiny, is healthy and happy and highly intelligent. It was a delight to see her and her father and brother and to have them remember my involvement with her."