Amazing: Boy Born Without a Cerebellum still able to use an iPad
I’m going to try to be careful with this one, as obviously the idea of a 3 year-old child not only surviving but thriving after being born without the part of the brain that controls things like balance, motor skills, and most importantly, BREATHING is nothing short of a miracle… but as inspirational as Chase Britton and his family are, this is not the type of story one would expect to find on the cold, heartless pages of Macenstein without there being at least SOME sort of Apple angle to it, and of course, there is. As we can see in the below video, despite all his handicaps, Chase is still able to use an iPad, which to me speaks volumes about Apple’s design and User Interface expertise.
And we thought that 100 year-old iPad grandma was impressive! Truly there has never been a more intuitive piece of technology than the iPad.
via AOL
lyke, omg! The doctor is using an iMac!
Breathing isn’t controlled by the cerebellum…
Most Apple fans are probably not aware the iPad is also being used extensively with Autistic children as a learning and communication device (something that speaks, often literally, for the individual via typing or pictographs). Both my sons use them in their classrooms and we are desperately trying to find a way to get at least one for our home. It’s the intuitive UI and touch screen interface. I haven’t heard of any other tablet device used this way. Kudos, Apple.
The medulla is actually what controls breathing. But it’s still impressive nonetheless…
From a medical standpoint, it’s heartening, but neither unprecedented nor miraculous. This is a typical example of hysterical science reporting by a breathless media keen to stir up public interest. See reasoned analysis here: http://theness.com/neurologicablog/?p=2830
I am blown away by this little guy’s courage, and the loving support of his family and medical support people. Miracles are beautiful to watch.
What a cutie – and absolutely amazing..!
Most people are not aware that my wife can actually use it…and it doesn’t break. The first year we were married we (when I say we…I mean her) went through 4 remote controls, 2 cell phones, and many more electronic items. Yes, we do have 2 children…and she has not broken them…yet.
The story is truly inspirational…and what’s even more inspirational is that someone actually reads AOL news.
@chase…@Dood…
First Doc didn’t say that part of the brain controlled breathing…
Second, if RTFA you would see they say: “Instead, they discovered he was completely missing his cerebellum — the part of the brain that controls motor skills, balance and emotions. Chase also is missing his pons, the part of the brain stem that controls basic functions, such as sleeping and breathing.”
Wish there was an edit button. Haven’t the slightest who Chase is…suppose to be Gina. Takes the wind right out of my sails…so much for my chastisement…moving on…
Great piece Glad to see Macenstein has a heart 🙂
thanks for sharing
Cheers!