Assistive Technology for Ataxia
For today’s HFA news post, I would like to share a summary of my thesis with you. It’s about a relatively new type of assistive device: a brain-computer interface (BCI).
For today’s HFA news post, I would like to share a summary of my thesis with you. It’s about a relatively new type of assistive device: a brain-computer interface (BCI).
After living a very active life filled with (volunteer) work, sports, and hobbies for the first 70 years of her life, Margaret Evans Albert had to change her habits. She was diagnosed with SCA3, which had a big impact on her daily life.
Christie Alexander was diagnosed with Olivopontocerebellar Atrophy but learned that she actually has Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2 (SCA2). her story highlights the importance of getting a diagnosis by an ataxia specialist. She is now able to connect with others who know exactly what she is going through.
Ewa Błońska has spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA), which runs in her family, so she already had her diagnosis before having had any symptoms. Ewa used to be ashamed of having ataxia, but now she knows that you can still achieve and experience many other beautiful things in life. She also designs some cool clothing […]
Wendy Colello was diagnosed with Acquired Cerebellar Ataxia. She has learned a lot about Ataxia a through support groups. After her recent decline, she got motivated to actively engage in physical therapy again.
David Cartwright has SCA6. David immigrated from England to Canada when he was 21, where he met his wife. He used to play many different types of ball sports and water sports. However, his journey with ataxia has also shown him the benefits of less intense workouts and exercising the mind.
Sonia Gobeil has two sons who have been diagnosed with ARSACS. Ever since then, Sonia has been an ARSACS advocate and she volunteers for the ARSACS Foundation. She is also actively involved in learning about improvements for people living with a disability.
Mark Aguilera has always been a sporty guy, and still is! After he graduated, he was diagnosed with Ataxia, but the type was still unknown. Many years later, he finally learned that he has AOA2.
After dealing with an uncontrollable gait for some years, Debbie Levi was diagnosed with cerebellar ataxia. Ataxia has taught Debbie the importance of building a strong inner self. This inspired her to keep a gratitude journal, write a memoir and be grateful for life and what it has to offer.
Elizabeth Foss is an Occupational Therapist who has been focused on therapy and support for people with Parkinson’s and Multiple Sclerosis. More recently, Elizabeth has gotten in touch with the ataxia community and she has been working enthusiastically on interesting and fun exercise programs.