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When Wearable Tech Meets Love: My Journey in Autism Innovation (Thank You, Gabi!)

<5 minute read

Copyright © 2018-2025 Dr David P Ruttenberg. All rights reserved.



Sometimes, life throws you curveballs wrapped in inspiration. As a father, neuroscientist, and serial “let’s-try-this!” tinkerer, I’m used to chasing big dreams and bigger questions. But nothing prepared me for the wild, beautiful ride of raising our daughter Phoebe—a brilliant force of nature with her own unique sensory world.


Enter my DIY dad phase: powered by coffee, music, and electrical engineering, I found myself inventing wearable gadgets to decode Phoebe’s sensory universe. What started as a family experiment soon hinted at something bigger—could these tools help others like Phoebe thrive?


Here’s where things get really interesting—and why I’m smiling as I type this. Gabi Barrocas, storyteller extraordinaire for The Real Spectrum, took the time to capture our journey in her latest piece. She brought humor, heart, and a dash of superhero cape energy to sharing how bespoke AI and wearable tech can empower individuals with sensory sensitivities.


Gabi, your words light up more than just pixels on a screen. You spotlighted what truly matters:


  • We’re all wired differently, and that’s a superpower.

  • Good tech isn’t “one-size-fits-all”—it’s as unique as the people it serves (preferably with style!).

  • Progress happens when we listen to neurodivergent voices and design alongside the community (not just for it).

  • And, hey, laughter helps. A lot.


At the heart of it: inclusion is about offering everyone the tools—and choices—they need to live their best, most authentic lives. Whether you’re building sensors, advocating for Medicaid, or jamming out to a spontaneous living room concert (Phoebe, I see you), remember: innovation works best when it springs from love and collaboration.


So thank you, Gabi, for sharing not just my story, but the hope and joy behind it. And to every parent, creator, and dreamer out there: keep building, keep questioning, and never lose your sense of wonder.


Curious about the full scoop? Dive into Gabi’s article for a fun read on where autism tech is heading next:


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