The Drax Files Episode 13 – Creations For Parkinson’s is a wonderful example of how many boundaries the virtual world experience can cross. I’ll embed the video at the bottom of the post. This episode touches upon how people of all ages can enjoy the virtual world experience and how experiences within the virtual world can inspire people outside of the virtual world.
Fran Serenade inworld is a blonde bombshell, or a mermaid, dancing, playing having fun. The person behind the avatar is an 86 year old lady who has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. We see Fran inside and outside of the virtual world, we see how her avatar inspires her to walk to the car because she’s determined to be able to do some of the things her avatar can do. Fran’s view of Second Life?
“Second Life might just be the fountain of youth“.
According to Drax on the youTube link for the video, Fran’s use of a virtual world is being closely studied by her personal doctor is but conclusions cannot be drawn without further study, so don’t go buying you parents, grandparents or great grandparents a Second Life subscription for Christmas in a search of the elixir of youth!
Fran’s daughter, Barbie Alhemy, runs Creations For Parkinson’s but explains that the island is not just for people with Parkinson’s or their family members and friends. People come to the island and talk in public or private about their own issues or simply to exchange ideas or get social.
The social aspect of virtual worlds is often lost with reports about adult activities but here we see examples of how people can make social connections regardless of their geographical location or whether they struggle socially outside of the virtual world. Barbie explains that people who are generally shy outside the virtual world will open up within it, giving these people an avenue to express themselves.
That sort of expression, creativity or socialising is important to many people and virtual worlds offer opportunities for people to explore themselves, seek solace or just have fun. These are important social aspects.
Barbie Alchemy also explains that they raise donations for the benefit of the Michael J Fox foundation, which is aimed at finding a cure for Parkinson’s disease.
Excellent episode yet again and yet another example of the varied use cases of virtual worlds that are under reported.
SLURL to Creations For Parkinson’s: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Creations%20Park/149/94/23
I have watched your video, it is brill and its wonderfull that second life has helped you so much, I loved being at the parkinsons avent in sl, wishing you all the best. love from rose- briar….. my sl name xx