Jan Sherman moves robotic arm with her mind

Summary

Jan Sherman, suffering from spinal cerebellar degeneration, underwent experimental surgery in 2012 to attach electrodes to her brain. These electrodes allowed her to control a robotic arm named Hector with her thoughts, a world first. Despite initial doubts, Jan's success in moving the arm and even feeding herself chocolate showcased groundbreaking advancements in prosthetic technology. After two and a half years, she bid farewell to Hector, but her participation in the study has significant implications for future medical advancements, reinforcing the idea that we are more than our physical bodies.

Takeaways

• 💡 Jan Sherman developed spinal cerebellar degeneration, losing the ability to move from the neck down.
• 👩‍🦽 She relies on others for all of her daily needs but can control her wheelchair using her chin.
• 🧠 In February 2012, Jan underwent experimental brain surgery to have electrodes attached to her brain.
• 🤔 Initially, she had second thoughts and 'buyer's remorse' after the surgery.
• ✨ The next day, her doubts vanished as the pain disappeared, and she was ready to move forward.
• 🦾 The surgery allowed her to control a robotic arm named Hector using only her thoughts.
• 🥳 Jan became the first person to use a highly advanced prosthetic arm with just two electrodes connected to her brain.
• 🍫 One of her significant accomplishments was feeding herself chocolate with Hector.
• 🌍 Jan's success with the prosthetic arm set a new world record and advanced global research in the field.
• 💬 Reflecting on the experience, Jan emphasized that 'you are more than the body you live in,' conveying a powerful message about identity beyond physical limitations.

Q & A

Who is Jan Sherman and what condition does she have?

Jan Sherman is a woman who developed spinal cerebellar degeneration at the age of 37, a condition that prevents the messages from her brain from reaching her limbs.

How does Jan Sherman move her wheelchair?

Jan Sherman moves her wheelchair using her chin.

What experimental surgery did Jan Sherman undergo in 2012?

In 2012, Jan Sherman underwent an experimental surgery where two electrodes were attached to her brain to help control a robotic arm with her thoughts.

How did Jan initially feel after the surgery?

Initially, Jan had 'buyer's remorse,' questioning her decision to undergo brain surgery, but her doubts disappeared the next morning when the pain was gone.

What did Jan name the robotic arm, and how did it work?

Jan named the robotic arm 'Hector.' By pretending she was moving her own arm, Jan was able to use her thoughts to control Hector, gradually improving its movement.

What world record did Jan Sherman set with her prosthetic arm?

Jan Sherman became the first person in the world to use two electrodes to operate a highly performing prosthetic arm using only her thoughts, setting a world record for speed in controlling the device.

What was Jan Sherman's personal goal with Hector?

Jan Sherman's personal goal was to feed herself chocolate using the robotic arm.

Why did Jan have to part with Hector after two and a half years?

Jan had to part with Hector after two and a half years because the experiment was temporary.

What did Jan learn from her experience with the prosthetic arm?

Jan learned that she is more than the body she lives in, realizing the deeper significance of her existence beyond physical limitations.

What is the broader significance of Jan's participation in this experiment?

Jan’s participation in the experiment demonstrates the potential for future advancements in prosthetic technology, offering hope for people with severe disabilities.