Idiopathic Hypersomnia: Student and 2026 Scholarship Recipient in the News!

Project Sleep is proud to highlight one of our 2026 Jack & Julie Narcolepsy Scholarship recipients, Gabriella “Gabby” Gault, whose story was recently featured on CBS affiliate WREG News in Memphis, Tennessee. As a student living with idiopathic hypersomnia while navigating high school, diagnosis, and self‑advocacy, Gabby’s journey shines a powerful light on a condition that is often overlooked and misunderstood.

In her WREG Bright Spot segment, Gabby shares what life was like before her diagnosis—from years of overwhelming sleepiness and misunderstood symptoms to finally receiving an accurate diagnosis and finding the support she needed. Like many students with idiopathic hypersomnia, her symptoms intensified during adolescence, making academics and daily routines incredibly challenging. Gabby describes sleeping up to 18 hours a day during high school, struggling academically, and being labeled “lazy” before trusting her instincts and seeking help from a guidance counselor and sleep specialist.

Gabby’s persistence paid off. With treatment, her quality of life has improved dramatically, and her optimism and energy now shine through. As WREG reported, Gabby received a 2026 Jack & Julie Narcolepsy Scholarship from Project Sleep, in partnership with the Hypersomnia Foundation which helped to fund five scholarships for students with idiopathic hypersomnia.

Why Gabby’s Story Matters

Gabby’s story shines a light on an underrecognized sleep disorder and the resilience of students living with sleep conditions. Her experience underscores why early recognition and access to sleep specialists matter, especially for teens navigating symptoms that are often dismissed or misunderstood.

This fall, Gabby will bring her scholarship with her to the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, where she plans to study kinesiology and pursue a career in physical therapy. We’re so proud of her and grateful to CBS News affiliate WREG for uplifting her voice and helping raise awareness about idiopathic hypersomnia and the importance of self‑advocacy.

You can watch Gabby’s full story on WREG here: Mid-South teen wins scholarship for overcoming sleep disorder. We can’t wait to see all she accomplishes next!

Jack & Julie Narcolepsy Scholarship

More Idiopathic Hypersomnia News