Following on from yesterday’s post about Neurodegeneration, I’ve come across these two videos.
I am always interested to hear stories that make you think about not writing people off, even though their physical limitations may suggest you should.
The first is about an open source project called the EyeWriter.
Using open source software and cheap, readily available components a team in the US have created a system that allows users to draw using only the movement of their eyes. The possibilities this has in terms of helping people overcome serious physical impairments is in incredible.
The second is about the legendary savant (and inspiration behind the Rain Man charater played by Dustin Hoffman) Kim Peek.
Although he has severe physical and social limitations, his brilliant mind has enthralled both scientists and members of the public alike.