BCI uses leading-edge technology that recognizes changes in a child’s thought patterns and then translates them into signals that allow the child to control a device, like a computer mouse or their wheelchair. By wearing a specialized headset and concentrating on certain words or commands, Teddy has learned to move his wheelchair through an obstacle course, activate a light switch, and even paint a picture.

Generous donations received through last year’s Radiothon are now enabling children to sharpen their BCI skills at home and learn ways to express themselves, gain independence and interact with their families in new and exciting ways, using portable BCI technology.

“BCI has opened up a whole new world for Teddy,” says his mom, Mary. “For the first time in his life, he can use his brain to do things his body cannot do. We love seeing how excited he gets when he can do something all by himself.”

Thanks to BCI, Teddy’s video games allow him to feel the pride of scoring a soccer goal or a strike in bowling while his family cheers him on. He can also turn on his own playlists when he wants to listen to some ‘80s pop hits or craves classical music to relax.

When she thinks about the potential BCI holds for her “Teddy Bear,” Mary gets emotional.

“Teddy relies on his caregivers and family for 100 percent of his needs, so if he can one day use BCI to communicate to us his feelings, his wants, his needs, that would be amazing,” she says. “His brain has been trapped and now it feels like he’s free—free to learn to play with his brothers and maybe someday, with a friend.”