New product developed and marketed by GRCC alumnus named one of Time Magazine's Top 100 Inventions of 2020

Grand Rapids Community College alumnus David Edwards has developed a new product, intended to help curb the spread of respiratory diseases. Edwards brought his newly developed product, known as FEND, to GRCC's campus for testing. Testing was done at GRCC in November to determine its efficacy in reducing the spread of COVID-19. FEND, a nasal mist, has been recognized by Time magazine as one of the top 100 inventions of 2020.

David Edwards graduated from what was known then as Grand Rapids Junior College in 1981, going on to earn degrees from Michigan Technological University and Illinois Institute of Technology. Edwards' father, Ronald Edwards, taught science courses at GRCC. This connection to GRCC compelled David Edwards to approach GRCC, asking it to serve as the testing center in the midwest for FEND. GRCC President Bill Pink was happy to have the campus be involved in the study. In an article published by MLive, Pink says, "We are excited to be a part of this study, because the safety and wellness of our community is paramount. But it is also inspiring to see how a GRCC graduate is playing a role in battling this pandemic."

Edwards' company, Sensory Cloud, began working on FEND years ago in response to the threat of anthrax, and has now applied the technology to try and help restrict the spread of COVID-10. FEND is a nasal mist that works by strengthening the mucus lining of the nose, which in turn helps trap small pathogens and flush them from the body before they can make it further into the respiratory system. The study at GRCC measured the air particles being breathed in and out by participants. Edwards thinks that the mist can work in conjunction with other mitigation strategies, like facemasks and social distancing, to slow the spread of the virus. Participation in the study was voluntary and open to the public. Subjects were paid $15 for participating.

Time magazine profiles FEND in its published list of the top 100 inventions of 2020. In the product review, time cites a study that showed FEND can reduce aerosol particles exhaled by about 75%. The product is described by Edwards as a nasal "equivalent to washing your hands". FEND is available for purchase for just under $60 through the Sensory Cloud Website. Information published on the website indicates that FEND can "reduce the amount of airborne particles in our airways for up to six hours".