SHREWSBURY – A Shrewsbury High School sophomore has been named a National STEM Champion by the National STEM Festival. Nichelle Thinigar is one of two students in Massachusetts to win the award.
“I am very happy that this issue is being recognized and of course I am happy that my hard work has paid off,” said Thinigar.
Nichelle’s invention for stroke patients
She is being recognized for her invention, an ankle brace that uses robotics to help stroke sufferers use their feet.
“So basically an ankle brace that can help stroke patients after recovery, even after their rehabilitation period,” Thinigar said.
It’s a problem with a personal connection for Thinigar.
“My grandfather had a stroke a year before I was born, but he still has a specific gait disorder that makes it difficult for him to lift his foot,” she said. “So I prototyped a design that could potentially help him in the future.”
CBS Boston
WBZ meteorologist Jacob Wycoff surprised Thinigar with the news. Nichelle’s proud parents were also present at the presentation.
“I’m so happy that my hard work paid off,” Thinigar said.
She said the ability to create life-changing solutions is the passion behind her work.
“If I created something, did something, used my creativity to do something that could help even one person live a better life or save their life, then I think my life would have been worth it,” Thinigar said.
The next stop for Thinigar is the National STEM Festival in Washington, DC in March 2025.
