We never saw this one coming.  Here is your classic definition of irony.  I read early today, that the man who invented the beloved children’s game “Operation”, is currently unable to afford an operation that he desperately needs.

John Spinello, the creator of the game, sold the rights for $500 back in the early 60s, but now he needs $25,000 for oral surgery.

He had indicated that he has never been bitter about not making more money from his invention, he has explained that he gets more joy over knowing that millions are enjoying his invention.  Hmmmm…sounds like a load of hooey to me.  If I had invented the paper clip and got nothing for it, I wouldn’t be happy just to know that people are able to clasp their papers together in an orderly fashion.

The game was part of a class project in the early 60s.  He was a young industrial design student at the University of Illinois.  He did so well with his creation, leading toy designer, Marvin Glass purchased the idea for just $500 and the promise of a job after college.

I guess the job was never meant to be, but the game hit stores in 1965 and ultimately became a culture phenomenon, earning rights holder Milton Bradley, and presently Hasbro, over $40 million in sales.

Spinello isn't broke, but the high cost of his medical bills make it almost impossible for him to cover the cost. Hearing of Spinello's predicament, some toy designer friends of his began a crowdfunding campaign to raise the money necessary for the oral operation.

Toy designers have set up the ILoveOperation.com website plus the crowdfunding campaign on Crowdrise.com.

 

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