The power of the brain is remarkable! Despite experiencing trauma, certain individuals have exhibited exceptional abilities through compensation from their brains.
Acquired savant syndrome is observed following brain trauma, where new talents and skills manifest in an individual previously considered “normal”. According to Mara Klemich, PhD, a neuropsychologist experienced in treating brain injuries and other neuropsychological conditions, these newfound proficiencies arise in the aftermath of brain trauma, neurologic episodes, strokes, and even diseases such as dementia.
Dr. Klemich has encountered instances where post-accident patients developed extraordinary gifts in areas such as painting and drawing. Other widespread sagacious abilities are math, art, music, and day calculation, notes Dr. Klemich.
A prevalent misconception prevalent about the syndrome is that individuals can develop extraordinary abilities in any domain. Dr. Klemich, who is also the creator of Above the Line, confirms that most instances are characterized by particular aptitudes in just one area, which is still impressive.
“The emergence of remarkable abilities following brain injury or affliction poses intriguing questions about the potential unutilized capacity that may exist in all of us,” shares Dr. Klemich.
“The catch, however, is figuring out how to uncover this hidden talent and ability without having to endure an unfortunate brain-related crisis.”
For the time being, learn about five authentic people with acquired savant syndrome and their talents. Alternatively, improve your own cognitive abilities by indulging in these brain games.
5) Orlando Serrell
Orlando Serrell is a renowned example of acquired savant syndrome. At the age of ten, Serrell was hit by a baseball during a game, but he didn’t stop playing.
After his headache subsided, he recognized that he could recall the day of the week for any given date. His official website notes that he could also effortlessly remember the weather, his location, and his activities for every day following the accident.
For those interested in sustaining their cognitive abilities, take action now to ensure the longevity of your brain function even at 80 years old.
4) Derek Amato
Among the acquired savants, some may also exhibit artistic talents. Derek Amato’s area of expertise is piano playing. In a freak accident, Amato sustained a head injury while playing catch, hitting his head on the concrete base of a Jacuzzi. This led to hearing impairment, memory loss, and headaches.
However, the injury also bestowed upon him a remarkable ability to recognize and play intricate melodies on the piano without formal instruction. According to Popular Science, Amato was inexplicably drawn to a friend’s piano studio and spent six hours playing without pause. You can read the incredible story of Amato’s journey on the link provided.
3) Alonzo Clemons
Alonzo Clemons | Savant, Sculptor & Artist
As a toddler, Alonzo Clemons experienced a brain injury that altered his cognitive processes, learning patterns, and communication skills. However, he also mysteriously began molding true-to-life sculptures purely from his memory, with no formal education or training.
Following the widespread recognition of savant syndrome due to the movie Rain Man, Clemons got an opportunity to feature in interviews with 60 Minutes and the Discovery Channel. This provided a platform for his remarkable artwork, including his famous oil pastels and sculptures, currently showcased in prestigious fine arts galleries all over the globe. Besides, the puzzles in these artworks are quite mind-boggling.
2) Anthony Cicoria
Anthony Cicoria was struck by lightning twenty-five years ago, causing him to pass out. After receiving CPR, he refused to be hospitalized but followed up with a doctor and a CT scan. Despite some memory problems, Cicoria was deemed healthy.
However, several years later, he experienced an intense desire to listen to piano music, despite having limited experience with it in the past. This newfound interest led him to start studying music, but he struggled to learn classical tunes due to original melodies playing in his head. It was then he realized that he had unconsciously created these original pieces of music.
1) Jason Padgett
Jason Padgett’s talents differ from those of other acquired savants, as he possesses remarkable mathematical skills. Following an assault outside a karaoke bar in 2002, the former furniture salesman suffered a concussion and PTSD. However, after some time, he discovered that he had become a mathematical genius.
Though he had only completed pre-algebra, Jason learned how to visualize complex math and physics concepts. This rare occurrence is almost as perplexing as some common misconceptions about the brain.