16: Little Wrist Computer
Summary
Producer James T. Green shares how his Apple Watch saved his life by detecting a second pulmonary embolism. After a near-fatal incident in 2014, he used the device to manage anxiety and track health data. When the watch alerted him to abnormal heart rates, he sought medical help, catching the condition before it became fatal. The story explores the complex relationship between technology, bodily autonomy, and the illusion of control.
Topics discussed
Intro: Content warning and Apple Watch premise
James' near-death experience in 2014
Partner Sine discovers James unconscious
Near-death vision and hospital arrival
Diagnosis of pulmonary embolism and surgery prep
Surgery experience and seeing internal organs
Loss of loved ones and turn to technology
Childhood obsession with tech and gadgets
Buying the first Apple Watch on Craigslist
Using data to manage anxiety and body image
Sponsors: Timing and FreshBooks
Heart rate monitoring feature and app workaround
Ignoring persistent heart rate alerts
Second pulmonary embolism diagnosis via data
Ambulance ride and hospital confirmation
Family reaction and gratitude for the watch
Reflections on tech dependence and control
Credits and acknowledgments
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