Natalie Givens, BS, Receives an ANF Pediatric Research Award

Natalie Givens, BS, has been awarded one of this year’s Pediatric Research Awards for a case series exploring thymectomy as a treatment for juvenile myasthenia gravis (JMG). This rare autoimmune disorder causes muscle weakness and fatigue in children. The study evaluated 12 pediatric patients using serial stimulated jitter analysis (stim-JA), a specialized form of single fiber EMG. “Patients had a significant decrease in mean jitter following thymectomy, suggesting improved neuromuscular junction transmission,” Ms. Givens explained, noting that this marks the first study to show such improvement using objective electrophysiological data rather than relying solely on symptoms.

“Pediatric patients often have fewer treatment options than adult patients with the same disease,” said Ms. Givens, who hopes the research will inspire multi-center studies and updated clinical guidelines. “Hopefully, this case series and future research on thymectomy in JMG will help further the international management guidelines for JMG and provide additional treatment options for patients struggling with refractory JMG.”

“I am incredibly honored to receive the Pediatric Research Award and have our research recognized at the 2025 AANEM Annual Meeting,” Ms. Givens shared, crediting mentor Dr. Sumit Verma for the instrumental support. Looking ahead to the meeting, she is excited to learn from leaders in NM medicine and gain insights to shape her future career.

Awards like these are made possible thanks to the generous support of donors. You can make a difference by supporting researchers like this with a donation today.