"This book depicts the trials and tribulations when trying to restore speech to Erik who was locked-in (paralyzed and mute) at age 16. We implanted electrodes into his brain, initiating a decade of breakthrough research in speech recovery. It lead to the author's own brain implant and the consequent successful offline development of the speech prosthetic whereby mute, locked-in people can speak. Part 1 is Erik's story of how he became locked-in following a brainstem stroke, and our efforts to break him out of his locked-in state by helping him speak. It describes my decision making, the tremendous contribution of his family, their anguish and the very relevant comparison with famous locked-in people, namely, Stephen Hawking and Jean-Dominique Bauby (The Diving Bell and the Butterfly). It also documents conversations between the author and Erik's Dad, Eddie. Eddie describes how he was trained in a rehabilitation hospital to take care of his son. His 16-year devotion to his son is unparalleled and heroic. Part 2 is a condensed and easy to follow version of the scientific aspects of this research. Part 2 also contains important contributions from other researchers in the field, in a question and answer format. Figures and videos on the website (www.neuralsignals.com) augment the text. Finally, there is a description of the documentary associated with this book written by the producer called 'Father of the Cyborgs"-- Provided by publisher.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.