Complete Story
10/14/2025
Advancing Hope Through Research: Sarah's Summer Scholar Journey
Sarah Dickman Reflects on her
Research that Could Change Lives
|
Sarah Dickman Internship: Sarah's internship at Cincinnati Children's Hospital investigates the impact of sex on muscle development following brachial plexus injury in children, aiming to identify more effective, targeted therapies for this disabling condition, particularly considering potential differences in outcomes for girls. |
This summer, OSMA Foundation Summer Scholar Sarah Dickman joined the orthopedics research team at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, investigating therapeutic strategies to improve outcomes for children with neonatal brachial plexus injury, the most common cause of pediatric upper limb paralysis. A medical student at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Sarah’s work reflects a deep commitment to advancing personalized, evidence-based care for children facing lifelong challenges. In Sarah's Words: “The preliminary findings of this research show promising potential for clinical translation in children with neuromuscular contractures following neonatal brachial plexus injury.” Children with this condition often undergo years of intensive physical therapy, yet many still experience progressive paralysis and skeletal deformities. Sarah’s research focused on a potential therapeutic target that influences two key biological mechanisms involved in the development of contractures. The findings are significant because there are currently no therapies that can prevent this outcome. “Our lab has also uncovered evidence that biological sex may influence treatment outcomes, suggesting that boys and girls could respond differently to future therapies.” This insight opens the door to more personalized treatment approaches, something Sarah is eager to continue exploring throughout her medical training. |
A Transformative Learning Experience
Beyond her scientific discoveries, Sarah says the OSMA Summer Scholars program has helped shape who she is becoming as a physician.
“Under the mentorship of Dr. Roger Cornwall and Dr. Qingnian Goh, I developed critical skills in problem-solving, scientific reasoning, and asking rigorous experimental questions.”
The experience confirmed the powerful synergy between her interests in research, surgery, and patient-centered care.
“Most importantly, I deepened my understanding of how the intersection of my passions can drive meaningful change in children’s lives.”
Looking Ahead
Sarah plans to continue this research as part of her medical journey, with the goal of improving therapies for children with neuromuscular conditions.
“The OSMA Summer Scholars program has given me an unparalleled opportunity to grow as a medical student, researcher, and lifelong learner. I am deeply grateful to the generous donors who make this program possible.”
You Can Help Support the Next Generation
of Physician Leaders
Sarah's story is a reminder of how investing in future physicians can lead to real change in the lives of Ohio’s patients and families.
Are you an alum of an Ohio medical school that participates in OSMA’s Summer Scholars Program? When you give, make sure to select your alma mater from the dropdown menu on the donation page so your gift can be counted toward your school’s total. We are challenging all Ohio medical schools to help fund the next class of Summer Scholars and provide more opportunities to students like Sarah.
We also accept grants from Donor Advised Funds (DAF). Simply provide your DAF Sponsor with the following:
EIN# is 31-0907287 and organization listed as Ohio Medical Education Foundation • 4400 N High St. Ste. 304 Columbus, OH 43214