Research Symposium

BIO

My name is Lily Ballard and I am a pre-med student at Florida State University, originally from Jacksonville, Florida, with a keen interest in research related to healthcare disparities and the well-being of caregivers. Currently, my research examines the relationship between C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation, and its connection to quality of life and burnout in parents of children with special healthcare needs. This project seeks to understand how chronic stress and caregiving responsibilities contribute to physical and emotional strain and potential biomarkers of stress-related health conditions.

Through my research, I aim to explore how systemic inflammation, as indicated by CRP levels, correlates with the mental and physical health challenges faced by these parents. This study holds the potential to inform interventions that address caregiver burnout and improve both their quality of life and overall health.

At FSU, I have gained valuable experience in research methodologies, data analysis, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills complement my goal of pursuing a career in medicine, where I hope to integrate research with clinical practice to enhance patient care. I am passionate about advocating for vulnerable populations and making a meaningful impact in the field of healthcare.

The Impact of C-Reactive Proteins on Quality of Life and Burnout in Parental Caregivers of Children with Special Healthcare Needs

Abstract

Parents of children with special healthcare needs are at higher risk for developing chronic illness and decreased quality of life (QOL) due to caregiving burdens demanded of them. Hence the primary purpose of the study is to explore C-reactive protein (CRP) presentation in caregivers of children with special healthcare needs compared to parents of typically developing children. Moreover, we aim to examine the relationship between CRP, caregiver burnout, and quality of life. A longitudinal study was conducted over a three-year period with parents of typically developing children (n=60), non-complex chronic disease (n=28), and complex chronic disease (n=32). Measures of C-reactive protein samples were collected via serum samples, and participants completed the Shirom-Melamed Burnout Measure (SMBM) and Quality-of-Life Scale. We predict that parents of children with more complex healthcare needs will present with higher levels of CRP than parents of children without special healthcare needs. We also hypothesize that levels of burnout will be higher, and QOL will be lower in parents of children with more medically complex conditions. Statistical analysis will be utilized to determine the results. High levels of burnout and low QOL in parents of children with special healthcare needs can negatively impact caregivers’ psychological well-being and lead to an increased risk for onset of disease, and inflammatory dysregulation. Future studies should further dive into CRP and its implications for chronic diseases.

Keywords: children, parents, proteins