Famed Neurologist Oliver Sacks has Died at 82

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Dr. Oliver Sacks, renowned for his contributions to neurology and literature, authored the influential 1973 book "Awakenings," which chronicles his work with patients suffering from encephalitis lethargica and was later adapted into a film featuring Robin Williams and Robert De Niro. His other notable works include "Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain" and "Uncle Tungsten," showcasing his deep interest in the intersection of neurology and human experience. Sacks was also recognized for his literary achievements, receiving a CBE in 2008. He frequently appeared on NPR's Radiolab, discussing topics such as prosopagnosia, the inability to recognize faces, and his fascination with the periodic table, which he incorporated into his daily life through various decorative items. His legacy continues to influence both the fields of medicine and literature.
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From the BBC News Service:

http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-34102119

Here's an article about Dr Sacks:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oliver_Sacks

His 1973 book Awakenings, an autobiographical account of his efforts to help people with encephalitis lethargica regain proper neurological function, was adapted into the Academy Award-nominated film of the same name in 1990 staring Robin Williams and Robert De Niro. He and his book Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain were the subject of "Musical Minds", an episode of the PBS series Nova. In 2008 Sacks was awarded a CBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours for services to literature.[3]
 
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Sad.

He wrote many great books - Uncle Tungsten, The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat.
 
He was a frequent contributor to the NPR show Radiolab. In one episode they talked about his inability to recognize faces and in another about his obsession with the periodic table. Apparently, he had numerous periodic table charts placed everywhere in his home from pillows to bedspreads to wall hangings.

Prosopagnosia

http://www.radiolab.org/story/91967-strangers-in-the-mirror/

http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2010/08/30/face-blind

and periodic tableism:

http://www.radiolab.org/story/archives-oliver-sacks-table-elements/
 

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Every day we learn new things. Sometimes it's just a small fact or realization. No matter how trivial or random, let's start recording our daily lessons. Please start off with "Today I learned". Keep commentary to a minimum and just LIKE posts. I'll start! Today I learned that you clean up a white hat by spraying some cleaner with bleach on it (rinse before putting it back on your head!)
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