University of Delaware program helps young girl return to passion for cooking

A young woman battling a severe brain injury is making great strides, thanks to a research project at the University of Delaware.

Twenty-three-year-old Corey Beattie is back in her happy place, cooking in the kitchen, thanks to a special harness that allows her to move in all directions without the fear of falling.

Six years ago, when Corey was in high school, applying to culinary school, she was struck in a horrible car accident.

"It's the phone call that no parent ever wants to get," said Marie Beattie.

Her mother says among other injuries, Corey suffered a severe brain injury.

"She was unable to do anything - no speech, no movement, nothing," said Beattie.

She spent months in the hospital, years doing rehabilitation. Recently, she joined the University of Delaware's Go Baby Go program.

It has several research projects designed to help kids and adults with special needs. Corey started in their café with her first harness.

Devina Kumar says the goal was to improve mobility and social skills - outside a traditional therapy setting.

"Having a harness in the real world is so much more effective as compared to having it in a fake environment," said Devina Kumar, Go Baby Go, University of Delaware.

Over two months' time, Corey was able to stand longer, walk farther and speak clearer.

It also boosted her confidence.

"I was enthralled with her and her expression and her interaction with people," said Beattie.

Now with a longer study, the Enliten Company installed a harness in her kitchen and bedroom. Kumar says they're hoping to prove the benefits so more people can use the harness.

For Corey, the ability to work in the kitchen again is simply "amazing."

For more information on the University of Delaware's Go Baby Go program:

UDel.edu/GoBabyGo

facebook.com/UDGoBabyGo

http://www.enlitenllc.com