RTCC Senior To Detail
‘Shaken Baby Syndrome’
By Sandy Vondrasek

Carrie White of Randolph is a high school senior with a mission. White, who is also the parent of a one-year-old, wants to help protect babies everywhere from being shaken—which can lead to permanent disability and even death.

White, who is in the 21^st Century Business program at Randolph Technical Career Center, became so impassioned about the topic that she decided to make it her "senior tech" project.

As a part of that project, White has planned a presentation/dinner event for next weekend Friday, April 4, at Randolph Union High School.

The event starts at 5 p.m., with an informational presentation by White, to be followed by a simple pasta dinner in the cafeteria. Proceeds from the modest admission will cover dinner costs and a donation to the Kierra Harrison Foundation, which assists shaken babies, and their families. It was founded by the grandmother of a baby who died after being shaken.

As a mom, White says, she feels it’s important to speak up about this difficult topic.

She noted that 50% of babies who are severely shaken end up with permanent disabilities, including traumatic brain injury, blindness (due to retinal bleeding), and limited physical functioning.

"Only three seconds, and the damage is done," she said.

About 25% of babies fully recover, and the remaining 25% "don’t make it."

White’s 21^st Century Business teacher, Melanie Staake, said she allows her students to pursue tech projects that interest them, and which may or may not fit into the program topic.

It’s important, Staake explained, for students "to be aware in the world; to expand beyond their work."

"I wanted to pick a topic I feel passionate about," White said.

Beyond next Friday’s talk, White hopes to do another presentation to students.

She knows of other young people who are pregnant or have small children.

"They need to know that help is out there," she said.

Tickets for the event can be procured at the RTCC office, 728-9595.