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Man who didn’t sleep for a record 264 hours suffered from crippling effects for years after

Two boys in the US came up with the concept for a scientific project in 1963, but the results of their experiment would have long-lasting effects.

In order to come up with a concept for a science fair project, Randy Gardner, 17, and his friend Bruce McAllister decided to attempt to break the world record for remaining awake.

At the time, a Honolulu DJ who had been up for an incredible 260 hours held the record (just under 11 days). Their goal was to understand what happens to our brains when we don’t get enough sleep.

McAllister admitted to being “young fools” and said, “We were idiots. “[The] original version of it [examined] the impact of lack of sleep on paranormal abilities. Read the full story here ▶