Just received this fabulous letter from the US Army! It was an honor to serve, for the third year, as the consumer reviewer for the Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program (PRMRP) sponsored by the US Department of Defense.
Each year, prominent scientists and consumer reviewers gather to evaluate hundreds of research applications to determine how $50 million is spent on future medical research. During this peer review session, there were approximately 270 PRMRP research applications reviewed for 2013 fiscal year funds. Scientists applying propose to conduct innovative research aimed at the elimination of medical conditions which impact combat readiness, including interstitial cystitis. The PRMRP fills important gaps not addressed by other funding agencies by supporting groundbreaking, high-risk, high-gain research while encouraging out-of-the-box thinking.
As a full voting member, I had the opportunity to speak on behalf of the patient community as studies were evaluated. My job was to remind key scientists about the priorities of patients today. Pain relief, for example, is a critical priority. The studies submitted this year were thought provoking, promising and may pave the way for future treatments. IC researchers Sonia Planey and Michael Chancellor received large PRMRP grants in 2012 and 2011. You can learn more about this important research program at: http://cdmrp.army.mil.
– Jill Osborne, MA – President & Founder, Interstitial Cystitis Network
The Department of the Army
Headquarters, U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command
810 Schreider Street
Fort Detrick, Maryland, 21702-5000
Dear Ms. Osborne:
On behalf of the Department of Defense, U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command, Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP), I would like to express our sincere gratitude for your exemplary efforts as a consumer reviewer for applications submitted for the fiscal year 2013 Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program (PRMRP). The continued success of this highly visible and competitive program is dependent on maintaining the highest standards of excellence in scientific peer review. We recognize that you have responded generously with your time and valuable perspective to fulfill the demanding requirements of this peer review process. Feedback from reviewers and program staff alike indicates that this peer review process was a success, and it would not have been possible without your hard work and dedication. Because of your efforts, the PRMRP draws that much closer to fulfilling its mission. Please know you have the thanks and appreciation from researchers, fellow consumers, and the entire CDMRP community.
Sincerely,
Wanda L. Salzer, M.D.
Colonel, U.S. Air Force, Medical Corps
Director
