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Fighting ALS with Assistive Technology (Neuro Note 4)

I decided to do my fourth neuro note on an article involving assistive technology because I am very intrigued by the world of adaptive equipment and all that it has to offer. I stumbled upon an article from FoxNews Health titled "Device gives man with ALS ability to write novel, produce music." This article stood out to me after learning more about ALS and what a tragic disease it is, progressing in the body until you can no longer live on your own. 
This article is about a man named Kip Jackson and how a device called the Tobii Dynavox I-15 has helped him have a more fulfilling life as he copes with the progression of ALS. This device was released in 2013 and is for clients with severe communication problems. It allows individuals to live more independently and happily. The Tobii Dynavox I-15 can be turned on by looking at it through a program called "Wake on Gaze." This keeps the client from needing assistance from a caregiver. This device also contains emergency buttons if the individual ever needed medical assistance. 
This device also allows people to participate in every day tasks, including ordering groceries off of Amazon in Kip's case. Taking care of his wife is a very important aspect of Kip's life, so having the Tobii Dynavox I-15 has been revolutionary for him. He even has used it to produce music using a program called "FL Studio." Kip also is in the middle of writing a novel, which is truly extraordinary in his state of health. He stated "ALS has taken away my ability to move and breathe but it cannot- and I refuse to let it-touch my soul."
This article was very inspirational to me and sets a great example in that there is hope beyond an ALS diagnosis. 

Hein, A. (2016 June 17). Device gives man with ALS the ability to write novel, produce music.                                  Retrieved from http://www.foxnews.com/health/2016/06/17/device-gives-man-with-als-ability-to-write-novel-produce-music.html#

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