Fwd: A field trip full of AHA moments (≧∀≦)

     We went to the King Fahad Specialist Hospital to learn more about the brain and its senses that we are doing in science. We learned first about the structures and functions, the treatment and cure of diseases relating to the brain, and also we actually saw some of the mechanics for therapy. 

     My main AHA point in this whole field trip was when Dr. Lina ElSabbagh presented methods of recovering or curing the patients whose parts were paralyzed. I never had in mind that a neuron of one part could take over by connecting- or "remapping" to function for a lost neuron of a different part (neuroplasticity). What I also found interesting was the various methods of treating the disabled weak part of the patient, such as the mirror therapy and motor imagery. It seemed almost like self-hypnosis, except building confidence as if they could move it. I felt surprised that it actually had effect. Anyhow with more and more of these AHA moments, I had ended up full of notes. I took 3 pages written on my notebook, full with both diagrams and bullets. I feel I had a wonderful time learning what I never knew about the brain. 

                     ~Ryoka Matsumoto