Jodie Howell has been a certificated clinical research nurse for over 10 years working in investigational  drug studies. Prior to research I work as a endoscopic and floor nurse with Sentara’s Hospital for several years. I believe in empowering patients to be their best advocate.

When not working I have two teenage sons and a dog that’s an German Shorthair Pointer (Fenway) who keep me young.

Gary Lauck was diagnosed with FSHD1 in November 2018, and through serendipity, learned about an upcoming research study at VCU looking for volunteers with my condition.  I applied and was accepted to the ReSOLVE study, and greatly appreciated the opportunity to meet and interact with the exceptional staff.  In a short amount of time, I overcame the initial shock and anxiety that accompanied my diagnosis and learned a lot about the disease.  It feels great to be an active part of the solution, which is why I volunteered to help start the Virginia chapter.  I can’t thank groups like the FSHD Society enough for helping people like me, and I hope to pay it forward by growing the community and outreach in our state.

Gary grew up in a small town in West Virginia, and after serving almost 30 years as a Navy helicopter pilot, I retired from the military in 2018 and reside in Virginia Beach with my wonderful wife and our two teenage children.