Abbotsford BC
A letter from Andrea and her parents, Esther and Paul Paterson
We were first introduced to CAYA in August 2005. It seemed too good to be true! CAYA provided a thorough assessment of our daughter Andrea’s needs to determine that the Lightwriter
[communication device] was best suited for her. Through CAYA, funding was provided for the Lightwriter as well as for the specialized and creative mounting of the Lightwriter to Andrea’s power wheelchair.
CAYA has been very helpful by providing several inservice sessions to train family, day program workers, care attendants and respite staff how to maximize Andrea’s ability in using the Lightwriter. Occasionally we have needed technical support and it’s only a phone call away! Once the device had to be sent away for repair for an extended period of time and CAYA even provided a replacement Lightwriter so that Andrea could keep up with her conversations.
July 2008 marked a big change for Andrea – and us! Andrea moved to a wonderful 4 bedroom group home close to our home. This meant many new staff to train and get to know Andrea. In Andrea’s words “I use my Lightwriter to help the staff at my new group home know what I like to do, to eat, or how I am feeling. Once when I was sick I wrote ‘I want to go home.” I love to have fun and to tease the staff and the Lightwriter helps me do that. I love it here!”
As parents, we are at ease knowing that no matter what situation or challenge Andrea is facing she can always make herself understood and her feelings made known. Thanks to her Lightwriter and CAYA!