Mind Over Matter: Paralyzed Man Controls Tech With Neuralink Brain Chip

A major medical breakthrough took place in Miami as a paralyzed military veteran, known as RJ, became one of the first patients to receive Elon Musk’s Neuralink brain chip. Implanted by Dr. Jonathan Jagid and his team at UHealth, the chip allows RJ to control devices like his TV using only his thoughts—a life-changing moment after a motorcycle accident left him quadriplegic.

The implant is part of Neuralink’s 2024 clinical trial designed for patients with ALS or spinal cord injuries. The coin-sized device is nearly invisible and has already demonstrated remarkable early success. In one demonstration, a participant was able to move a computer cursor using brain signals alone.

Dr. Jagid praised the chip’s miniaturized design and functionality. “It’s been really successful — allowing them to accomplish goals they could not otherwise accomplish,” he said. While concerns about such new technologies are expected, the potential to restore speech, vision, and independence is generating global excitement.

RJ summed up his optimism simply: “Excited to see what BCI’s got going on.”

For more information or to join the Neuralink trial, visit: neuralink.com/trials