Barb Silva

Barbara (Barb) is the 2019 Citizen Scientist Catalyst Award honoree. She received an Alzheimer’s diagnosis several years ago at Rhode Island Hospital (RIH) even though her primary care physician had told her she had nothing to worry about. Her connection with RIH continues today as a clinical trial participant in one of their studies. Barb has been involved in fitness classes for decades, so it was a natural fit for her and a friend to co-create a memory fitness class program. Her business partner, Elaine Sewatsky, is also her research study partner. Of Barb’s decision to seek a second opinion at Rhode Island Hospital, she says, “I’m glad I begged for help after my first physician told me not to worry. Every second you lose matters.” Barb resides in Wakefield, RI.