My name is Roy. I am now 79 years old and have had MSA since 2008 – Multiple System Atrophy, a neuro-degenerative disease; I have lost the ability to walk and must use a wheelchair. With MSA, among other health losses, most patients lose the ability to speak. Since 2011 I have been unable to use my voice to speak or communicate.

Prior to MSA, in early retirement I was very active physically. I also worked doing locums for local physicians on vacation. With the loss of my voice and other MSA related health issues my world became very small. I tried locating some word/phrase boards to use, but this was not very successful long term.

In 2012 my life opened up with the use of a Lightwriter from CAYA. This machine has given me the ability to communicate with my family and friends. CAYA (Tim and Tara) have been tremendously encouraging and patient as they helped input words and phrases. If any question arose I knew we could always be in contact with CAYA. They quickly provided information and support at all times.

My family and close friends are extremely grateful for my use of the Lightwriter as it gives me the ability to share what is happening in my life. It has been excellent in helping family and friends be more at ease and comfortable in visiting me. It is wonderful to ‘speak’ via the Lightwriter and be part of the conversation.

Of the many symptoms of my disease, I feel not having a voice or ability to communicate is the most difficult of all for me to face.

Prior to having the use of the Lightwriter I felt very confined and discouraged. The Lightwriter has opened up my world and also helped my family and friends to share in my daily life.

Over time, CAYA also designed for me personalized flowcharts, Bigmack and other aids to provide additional helpful systems I could use in various situations as I began to lose the use of my hands.

I wish to express my gratitude to CAYA for providing such an enormous help and support to me these past years. Many have asked us about CAYA and we have been eager to share information about the great work being done in the area of communication.

I hope CAYA will always be here to provide support and equipment for those without a voice. CAYA is one of the most needed health organizations in B.C. and I trust it will continue to be funded for a very long time.

Roy V Ward