Sharon K Inouye

In what ways do you feel you contribute to the Harvard community?
I moved to Harvard Medical School in 2005, drawn by the intellectual energy and openness to new ideas.
I came with the dream of joining kindred spirits eager to make the world a better place.

The elderly are a vulnerable and neglected segment of our society, with confused older persons representing the most neglected and misunderstood. Despite the 'silver tsunami' sweeping our country, the problems of aging remain largely unaddressed.
I have dedicated my life to serving as a champion to bring attention to the unaddressed healthcare needs of seniors. Since arriving, I have been fortunate to work with a group of highly committed investigators. Together, we are building the world's premiere research and training center on delirium.

What is the significance of the object you brought with you to the photo shoot?
My object is an image of a brain, announcing the 2006 Aging Brain Center Scientific Symposium. The photo symbolizes the dream that brought me here. I wanted to find people who would work with me on the problem of delirium (acute confusion), which can be a devastating yet unrecognized problem. 

Blazing a new trail comes with discouragement. At those times, I look at this photo and it brings renewed enthusiasm, reminding me why I came and the importance of the journey.