MASON, Mich. (WLNS) — For those recovering from a serious injury or living with a disability, getting back behind the wheel can seem impossible. But a Mid-Michigan rehabilitation center is using cutting-edge technology to help patients regain their independence.
Origami Rehabilitation was able to purchase a state-of-the-art driving simulator just a few years ago through a $100,000 grant from General Motors. The machine meant to help people recovering from neurological injuries, medical conditions, or those living with disabilities, learn, or re-learn, to drive.
What makes the simulator unique is the adaptive technologies that make it easier for therapists to do driver training and evaluations.
“I have left foot accelerator. I have hand control opportunity so I can help individuals who can’t use their feet,” said driver rehabilitaton specialist Heather Heppe. “We can make them work through the rain, through a storm. If they hit a curb, it throws their steering wheel. The wind will throw their steering wheel. They have to use the windshield wipers.”
Heppe is one of only three driver rehabilitation specialists in the state of Michigan who are also occupational therapists. She’s been with Origami for about nine years and has helped over 1,000 people through its driver rehabilitation program — many of whom now hold their licenses…