Computer games whizz kid, Brendon, lost the ability to play when his muscular dystrophy progressed and he didn’t have the finger strength to use a standard computer keyboard. Martin Harman, a volunteer with the charity Remap developed a special keypad and mouse mat to get him back online.
When it was done Brendon was overjoyed, as he would once again be able to compete on equal terms with others. In the world of online gaming, nobody knows if you have an impairment like muscular dystrophy which has such an impact in daily life offline. Brendon commented: “Now I can get back to thrashing those able-bodied kids!”
The Challenge
Brendon was an avid and competent computer games player, but his muscular dystrophy had progressed to the stage where he did not have the strength in his right hand fingers to operate a standard computer keyboard to control the games. The challenge to design a bespoke gaming station that would enable him to play again was taken up by Remap.
The Solution
Martin, a volunteer with Remap Southampton realised that any solution would need to incorporate special switches that needed only the minimum of force to operate them. A suitable variety was sourced on the internet – ones that switch on and off very fast, making them ideal for this application. Martin developed a type of mouse mat that included the existing wireless mouse and the new switches buttons mounted in a way to suit the fingers on Brendon’s right hand. A second keyboard was adapted by masking all the keys not needed for games operation, so that Brendon could operate those keys and rest his hand on the mask surround.
The Benefits
Brendon was immediately able to play all his favourite computer games and compete on equal terms with able bodied players online. In a letter of thanks to Martin, his mum and dad commented: “It’s the small things in life that can make the biggest difference. It was an honour to meet such a warm caring person as yourself”.
This project was one of seven that won awards at Remap’s annual meeting in July. Other award winning projects included a bed for a girl with cerebral palsy, archery bows specially adapted for children that use wheelchairs and a ‘throwing seat’ for a child athlete.
Remap is a charity that provides custom-made equipment for people with disabilities of all ages, free of charge. For over 50 years, this unassuming charity has been quietly helping thousands of disabled people to live more independently. Its volunteers make equipment for individuals, where no suitable kit is commercially available. With its network of over 70 groups across England and Wales, Remap provides an essential service in most areas.
To find out more, visit the Remap website at: www.remap.org.uk or Tel: 01732 760209.
