Yesterday we met with the rep from DynaVox. The Sales Consultant showed Tootie 2 pictures; since Tootie was responding well in making a choice, the rep showed Tootie 3 pictures.

I was so impressed with the device; it comes equipped with Windows 7, a camera, can be used as a remote since it has Infrared, is about the size of a small laptop and all these other features I hope to learn!

A mount is also going to be provided so Tootie can use the device while she sits in her stroller. This is truly a blessing for us as this device is free!!

The rep shared Texas is currently the only state that charges a TTY/TDD fee on our phone bill so, all the revenue from those taxes benefit the deaf and those in need of a communication device. The application is known as STAP - Specialized Telecommunications Assistance Program; Office for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services via the Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services.

All Crystal had to do was complete 1 piece of paper and attach a copy of her driver's license. The rep shared we could get the device via Medicaid but that process was about 15 pages long and would still need to be approved.

If all goes as planned, Tootie should be receiving her device the latter part of January.

Their "devices give a voice to people who are unable to speak as a result of severe cognitive and physical limitations due to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig’s Disease), stroke, traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy, autism, intellectual disabilities, and other conditions."

They provide services to the following regions: North America, Europe, and Australia.

Here is a link to there website: http://www.dynavoxtech.com/

Once you find your region, there is a tab specific to Stroke/Aphasia.

Here is a link to success stories: http://www.dynavoxtech.com/success/

I will post pics as soon as Crystal downloads them!

TTY ~ Text Telephone

TDD ~ Telecommunication Device for the Deaf