HAPPENING NOW:

Some freedom from paralysis

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Two paralyzed patients have been able to use the power of their mind to tell a robot to reach and grasp for items.

Scientists at the National Institutes of Health say *the brain gate system* helps patients paralyzed by stroke perform every-day tasks.

A chip is implanted in the brain that monitors signals for movement.

Software then interprets the messages and sends them to a nearby robot.

The patients were able to direct the robot to reach for a cup so they could drink.

Researchers say the technology is still several years away from practical use, but they are very excited with these results.