Once again U.S. News & World Report has named Barrow Neurological Institute one of the top-10 centers for neurosurgery and neurology. This recognition reflects our continued emphasis on advancing neuroscience through innovative research and medical education. We strive to bring effective new treatments to the Valley as quickly as possible, to develop new solutions to medical problems, to offer the very best medical training available and to uncover the roots of disease. As a result, patients come to Barrow from across Arizona, the nation and the world for the highly specialized and sometimes unique care we offer.
In this issue of Barrow, you will find many examples of the breakthrough research, medical education and patient care happening every day at Barrow. So much of this is possible because of you and your continued support of Barrow.
Consider the headline-making discovery of Susana Martinez-Conde, PhD, and Stephen Macknik, PhD. These two young scientists, working with funds from Barrow Neurological Foundation, have settled a question that has been debated by vision researchers for half a century. Their findings not only answer the question of the purpose of tiny eye movements called microsaccades, but will undoubtedly lead to improved treatments for many eye diseases. New procedures and services now available at Barrow are the topics of several other articles. Randall Porter, MD, has begun performing a new less invasive approach to spine surgery. And the new Barrow/ Areté Sleep Center is solving the severe sleep disorders of patients like young Austin Wales, pictured on our cover.
Research is indeed the key to improving treatments and finding cures, and the work being done by neurologists and scientists in the Barrow Neuroimmunology Program will undoubtedly improve care for multiple sclerosis and other diseases. I commend these researchers for their aggressive studies into these devastating disorders.
I would also like to pay tribute to all the benefactors featured in this issue. From young philanthropists like the Students Supporting Brain Tumor Research to long-time supporters such as William and Judy Schubert, Lou Grubb, and Michelle and Ed Robson, benefactors are helping patients now and will improve care for children and adults in the future. Thank you for all you do for Barrow.
Sincerely,
Robert F. Spetzler, MD
Director, Barrow Neurological Institute
Catherine Menor
Editor/ writer
Catherine.Menor@chw.edu
Justin Detwiler
Art director/designer
Panoramic Press
Sally Clasen, Melissa Morrison,
Sarah Padilla, Kristin Park
Contributing writers
Jeff Noble, Jackie Mercandetti
Photography
Robert F. Spetzler, MD
Director
Barrow Neurological Institute®
Mary Jane Crist, CFRE
CEO, Barrow Neurological Foundation
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