A Father's Journey of Hope

On 21 February 2022 Jake Schneider received news that would transform his life: a diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This progressive neuromuscular disease relentlessly weakens muscles and can eventually make walking, speaking and even breathing impossible. For Jake, a young father, this meant confronting a future defined by increasing dependence on others.

Yet in the face of adversity Jake chose a path few have walked before. He volunteered for Neuralink’s PRIME study and, in early 2025, became the seventh person ever to receive the company’s N1 brain implant. Neuralink’s R1 surgical robot precisely drilled a small opening in his skull and inserted ultra‑thin threads into the hand region of his motor cortex. These threads detect the electrical spikes produced by neurons when he intends to move, even though ALS prevents his body from carrying out those movements. The procedure lasts only a few hours and the device is cosmetically invisible.

Awakening the Link

Recovery from surgery is swift. Previous participants, such as Noland Arbaugh, demonstrated cursor control within an hour of waking. Jake reported similar results: by simply imagining clenching his fist he can move a cursor, type messages and navigate the web. The N1 system is completely wireless, enabling him to use it at home rather than being tethered to a lab.

For patients with ALS, traditional assistive devices often demand specific environments or constant caregiver support. Eye‑tracking machines, for instance, only work in well‑controlled lighting and can leave users feeling trapped. By contrast, the N1 implant offers digital autonomy: Jake can communicate privately at any hour without requiring someone to set up equipment.

Newfound Independence

Jake joins a small community of Neuralink pioneers whose lives illustrate the technology’s potential. Brad Smith, completely non‑verbal due to ALS, uses his implant to control a mouse on his computer and narrate videos using an AI‑generated voice. Mike, another ALS participant, continues his profession as a land surveyor by operating computer‑aided design software from home. Alex designs three‑dimensional machine parts and even plays complex video games with his implant. These stories highlight how thought‑controlled computing can restore dignity, productivity and joy.

Jake’s journey is still unfolding. As he shares updates through his TikTok channel @pairedwith_p7, he offers an intimate window into life with an implanted brain–computer interface. His courage and optimism illuminate a path forward not only for himself and his family but also for countless people living with ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases.