U of T alumni, friends, prospective students and their families, and high school counsellors are invited to a thought-provoking talk on 

“I Have Something To Say!” Enabling Communication For Better Healthcare

by

Professor Tom Chau 
Institute of Biomaterials & Biomedical Engineering
Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, University of Toronto
Vice President of Research, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital

Take a moment to consider what it would be like to be unable to speak, gesture or express your personal preferences, needs or wants. Communication is a fundamental component to human relationships. For many nonverbal individuals with severe disabilities, communication challenges significantly impact their quality of life. This talk will highlight some of the leading-edge research happening at Holland Bloorview - a fully affiliated academic health sciences centre of the University of Toronto - that is breaking down barriers to communication. From devices that detect subtle facial gestures to brain-computer interfaces that decode specific "thoughts," innovative communication technologies are empowering people with severe disabilities to make choices, direct their own care, participate in school and communicate with loved ones.

Note: This presentation will be preceded by an information session for prospective students interested in learning more about the University of Toronto. 10th, 11th and 12th-grade high school students are encouraged to attend with their families. For more information on the session, please email student.recruitment@utoronto.ca. Feel free to share this invitation with anyone who may be interested in this opportunity!

Professor Chau's presentation is part of an ongoing series of compelling lectures for alumni, hosted in cities around the world. U of T Where You Are brings the University right into your community, keeping you informed, inspired and connected.