Dec 12 2025
2025 Wake Up Narcolepsy Special Research Update

 In 2025, Wake Up Narcolepsy (WUN) donated $170k to Narcolepsy research. This contribution brings the total donated by WUN since inception to $1.77 million! 

Driving research towards improved treatments and a cure is a crucial part of WUN’s mission. The importance of scientific discovery and supporting innovative investigations through sustained research investment has never been greater. In honor of co-founder Monica Gow, we are excited to announce the establishment of a new annual research grant!

The Monica Gow Research Grant celebrates her commitment to investing in research and improved patient outcomes. Her transformative impact and leadership for over 15 years shaped WUN and reinforced the organization’s long-term commitment to supporting individuals with Narcolepsy and Idiopathic Hypersomnia. 

The recipient of the inaugural grant is Dr. Anna Wani, a pediatric sleep medicine specialist and associate professor at UT Southwestern Medical Center. Her passion for serving the sleep community and research focus on better supporting her patients aligns perfectly with the grant’s purpose. Dr. Wani also has a dedication to training the next generation of compassionate and engaged sleep medicine providers. 

Her favorite quote is from the late author, Dr. Maya Angelou: “When you get, give. When you learn, teach.” As a doctor, she tries to live by that philosophy. “With a career in medicine, you’re constantly learning. You can ‘give back’ by caring for patients in your community and through teaching,” says Dr. Wani. “It’s a blessing to be in that position.”

WUN grants allow researchers, like Dr. Wani, to continue their crucial work and help their impact reach even further.

Congratulations to all 2025 WUN grant recipients: Dr. Emmanuel Mignot, Stanford University, Dr. Thomas Scammell, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Dr. Kiran Maski, Boston Children’s Hospital, Dr. Alicia Roth, Cleveland Clinic & Dr. Christian Burgess, University of Michigan!

Community support plays a large role in making this possible and donations to advance research can be made here. We sincerely appreciate the ongoing support of those who believe in the work we do and invite you to celebrate this milestone with us. Thank you.

To learn more about research funded by WUN, visit the Featured Research page or Grant Application page.