Chinese quadriplegic runs high-tech farm using one finger

Li Xia, a 36-year-old with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, runs four hydroponic greenhouses remotely from his bed using a computer programme he developed and a trackball controlled by his one movable finger; his mother carries out manual tasks in the greenhouses.

Li Xia is a 36-year-old living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy who runs a small hydroponic farm from his prefabricated home near Chongqing. He operates the cultivation system remotely using a computer and software he developed, controlling an on-screen cursor with one movable finger and a toe-mounted sensor. His mother helps with hands-on work in the greenhouses and provides day-to-day care. The family sells their celery locally and aims to develop the project further. Known details: - Li has Duchenne muscular dystrophy and relies on a ventilator for breathing. - He remotely monitors and controls four hydroponic greenhouses using a microcomputer, cameras and sensors. - He uses a trackball with his single movable finger and a flex sensor on his toe to interact with the system. - His 62-year-old mother performs manual tasks in the greenhouses and supports his daily care. Summary: The farm is run from Li's home through technology he built, while his mother handles physical operations; the produce is sold to a local supermarket and the venture is not yet profitable. Undetermined at this time.