Mission
Robots for Humanity (R4H) is about using technology to extend our capabilities, fill in our weaknesses, and let people perform at their best. Henry Evans is the inspiration and instigator of R4H. Henry suffered a tragic stroke when he was 40 years old, rendering him mute and quadriplegic. Through robotic technology, Henry continues to find ways to explore and interact with the world. Devices developed by members of Robots for Humanity thus far range from an interactive laser mounted on his glasses, to a very expensive humanoid robot (PR2) which serves as Henry's body surrogate, to various flying quad rotors. This site tells the story of Henry’s quest to inspire engineers the world over to devote part of their time developing innovative ways for disabled people to interact with the world. Early and consistent collaborators and co-founders include Dr. Kemp from The Healthcare Robotics Lab at Georgia Tech, Steve Cousins/Willow Garage, and Henry's wife, Jane, without whom R4H would not have been possible.
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Lessons Learned
The Caregiver Principle
NO MATTER HOW MUCH ASSISTANCE A DEVICE PROVIDES TO A [ADULT] PATIENT, IT WILL NOT BE USED REGULARLY UNLESS IT ALSO TAKES NO TIME TO EITHER SET UP OR USE BY THE CAREGIVER, AND UNLESS IT MAKES THE CAREGIVER’S LIFE, NET NET, A LOT EASIER.
Hope
By Henry Evans, 1981
When gray light spreads its heavy gloom Upon your worn and weary face; When the path ahead is long and steep And your spirit wants a slower pace; When your feet can't follow one another, When your soul has reach'ed dark despair; Fall not into the hand of darkness Think not the thought that no one cares. Do not succomb to evil's quest And ponder not on pain untold For gloomy, grey and deep sad thoughts Can only lead to sorrow cold.
Sometimes living takes on shades Of amber brown and cloudy skies, But know that when the sun 'gain dawns, You'll see the world with clear bright eyes. Think then not of foregone grief Or of the past days' lonely grip, For each new dawn is golden joy Which sweetens sadness with a sip. The sun will shine and bring to you Its warm and fresh and happy grin; You'll grab the world with all your arms And hug its happiness again.