Dynamic variable names

Hi, I'm trying to access variables coming in through a form. I have assigned them dynamic names on the form page (e.g., $username, where username can change). Now how can I access these variables on the next page? I tried: $($people["username"]) where username is a field and people is a MySQL record. This doesn't work though. Is this not possible? I'm essentially trying to make a page where someone can edit permissions for any number of users, and <input value="$username">. How else can I do this?? Thanks tons! -Casey