My husband was diagnosed with ALS last fall. It’s a very challenging and terrifying disease. There is no cure. Since he has what’s known as “bulbar” onset, he has difficulty speaking and swallowing. Over the past few months his speech has became increasingly more slurred and difficult to comprehend. For a while I was able to understand and translate his speech to others for him. Now even I find his verbal communication problematic and generally can’t figure out what he is trying to say.
Gary was becoming ‘locked in his mind’. You can imagine the frustration and loneliness that results from not being able to talk with others. I can’t adequately express my gratitude to CAYA for providing a communication device, with the app “Predictable”. Now Gary is able to connect with his family, his friends and the community at large. He is able to retain his independence, make choices for himself, express his views, and basically ‘share’ himself with others. For me, his spouse, this gift has been priceless. I know my time with Gary is limited, so I value each hour, each day that I am able to be with him. I so appreciate being able to hear his thoughts and laugh with him again. Thanks CAYA for providing this service….it’s made such an enormous difference.
Gary and Irene