Graduating Student Overcomes Rare Disorder After Nine Years of Perseverance
Theo Hanson, a graduate of Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), has completed his BA (Hons) degree in Computer Games Design with a unique perspective and a passion for improving accessibility in gaming. This ambition stems from his own experience living with hereditary sensory neuropathy (HSN), a rare genetic disorder that leaves him unable to feel pain or touch [1].
Hanson began his academic journey at ARU in 2016, finding university to be a natural step in his life. Despite initial challenges living away from home, he found his stride and even took on a "parental" role to students during the Covid pandemic [2]. His dedication and commitment were recognised by his lecturers and support staff, who found him to be a helpful and supportive presence.
Hanson's version of HSN has manifested in a way that his brain function and level of injury is less impaired than others with the same condition. This has not deterred him from pursuing his passion for gaming, and he has already gained recognition for his work in this area, including features in PC Gamer magazine [2].
Hanson's post-graduation plan is to focus on improving accessibility in gaming. He is keen to pursue work in this field following his graduation, and his condition has only served to deepen his understanding and empathy for those with similar challenges.
During his time at ARU, Hanson became a course representative and met new people every year while living in student accommodation. He has seen friends go on to become lecturers and has considered pursuing a Masters, but for now, his focus is on making a difference in the gaming industry.
Living independently has been a significant part of Hanson's journey. His parents treated him like his siblings and encouraged him to live on his own, despite the risks associated with his condition, such as accidental injury or infections [3]. Hanson's resilience and determination are inspiring, and his work in gaming accessibility is sure to make a positive impact.
References: 1. Theo Hanson's personal website 2. PC Gamer article featuring Theo Hanson 3. Anglia Ruskin University news article about Theo Hanson
- Theo Hanson, an undergraduate at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), studied Computer Games Design and graduated with a unique perspective on accessibility in gaming.
- Hanson began his academic journey at ARU in 2016, finding university to be a natural step in his life despite initial challenges living away from home.
- Despite his condition, hereditary sensory neuropathy (HSN), which leaves him unable to feel pain or touch, Hanson's brain function and level of injury is less impaired than others with the same condition.
- Hanson's dedication and commitment to improving accessibility in gaming was recognized by his lecturers and support staff at ARU, who found him to be a helpful and supportive presence.
- Hanson's post-graduation plan is to focus on work in the gaming industry, where he intends to make a positive impact on accessibility.
- During his time at ARU, Hanson served as a course representative and lived in student accommodation, meeting new people every year.
- Living independently has been a significant part of Hanson's journey, with his parents encouraging him to do so despite the risks associated with his condition.
- Hanson's story and work in gaming accessibility has been featured in news articles, including PC Gamer magazine, showcasing his commitment to education and self-development, and personal growth.
