Meet Emily Hsu, TESS Operations Manager

Q: What is your role at TESS Research Foundation?

My official title is Operations Manager! This basically means that my jobs are to a) make sure that all our internal databases are up-to-date and b) assist in any way that I can to make TESS more productive.

Q: How does the work you are doing have the potential to help those with SLC13A5 Epilepsy?

I work to make sure that the information we have on patients and their families, such as their medical data, is correct and up-to-date so that researchers can use that data to help find a cure. My work also involves ensuring that all of our contact information is current, so that everyone (including researchers, patients, and our wonderful donors) can communicate with each other and accomplish more groundbreaking research efficiently.

I also maintain our website’s content so that researchers and newly-diagnosed families can learn about SLC13A5 Deficiency and access the resources and services provided by TESS Research Foundation. Additionally, I produce informational outreach videos to try to increase awareness and understanding of SLC13A5 Deficiency. I help write grants in order to apply for research funding. There’s a lot of work to be done! 😀

Q: What inspires you to contribute your time and skills to TESS?

I’m always blown away by the strength and perseverance that all the SLC13A5 Deficiency families display on a daily basis. The dedication and selflessness that all the researchers display is also incredibly inspiring!

Q: Have you learned anything through your work with TESS Research Foundation that you’d like to share?

I’ve learned that this cause needs dedicated and generous people (generous with their time, with their energy, with their experience, and with their fundraising efforts). These kids deserve treatments and cures so they can live healthy and fulfilling lives.