The solid foundation I received at UW has opened many doors for me. I think it is important to give while you are 'alive and taking nourishment,' and it will be such a joy to see the new building on its completion. - Mary Behrens ('64 BS Nursing) |
|  | "Schizophrenia is a cruel disease," according to Pat Lane. "It's been an intruder in our lives." Pat and Jack ('57 Bus) Lane have learned much about the disease over the years because of a family member's diagnosis.
A disabling chronic mental illness, schizophrenia affects almost one percent of the population. While there is no cure for the illness, advances made during the last ten years have resulted in new, more effective medications without the side effects of the earlier drugs.
Despite these scientific advances, many with the illness suffer needlessly because they are unable to recognize or accept their illness and they refuse treatment.
Wanting to help those living with schizophrenia, the Lanes made a gift to create the Lane Schizophrenia Research Fund. "We are encouraged by the fine reputation of the UW Medical School and the research of Dr. Ned Kalin, director of the HealthEmotions Research Institute," said Jack.
The research being funded will help to identify people at significant risk for the disease before the onset of major symptoms. This will allow for earlier intervention for at-risk individuals and their families before the start of paranoia, which can interfere with treatment.
Research has suggested that the early and effective treatment of schizophrenia may reduce the long-term negative consequences of this chronic illness. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
