Innovation and inspiration were on full display at the John McGivney Children’s Centre when Grade 7 student Ashton Lenehan, a student at Académie Ste-Cécile International School, visited to demonstrate his remarkable science project, a brainwave-controlled wheelchair prototype called “Neuro-Wheelz.”
Ashton has developed an early prototype that uses an EEG cap to isolate alpha brainwaves created when he blinks his eyes tightly. The signal then moves the wheelchair forward, and another blink brings it to a stop. The project is being prepared for his upcoming school science fair on March 6th, but before that, Ashton wanted expert feedback.
That’s where JMCC came in.
During his visit, Ashton demonstrated Neuro-Wheelz for members of our team, including Tracey Roberts, Occupational Therapist in the JMCC Seating Department. Tracey was able to provide insight from a clinical perspective, offering thoughtful feedback about accessibility, usability, and real-world application.
The experience sparked even more ideas for Ashton, who left inspired and thinking about additional ways his concept could evolve to further support individuals with disabilities.
At JMCC, we are always encouraged by young innovators who are passionate about inclusion and accessibility. Ashton’s creativity, curiosity, and commitment to making a difference remind us that meaningful change can begin at any age.
We wish Ashton the very best at his science fair and look forward to seeing where his innovation journey takes him next!
To see Neuro-Wheelz in action, visit Ashton’s YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@neurowheelz
