Friday, October 05, 2007

The Eyes Can Talk

Jack had his eye-response communication evaluation yesterday at the Speech and Hearing Clinic at Arizona State University. He can do it! There was some concern at first that the computer might not be able to calibrate his eyes because he has artificial lenses due to congenital cataracts - but, it worked. It took awhile to get everything set up and going and Jack was tiring by the end, but he was able to move his eyes to different places on the computer screen and activate it. They didn't try anything too complicated like letters, so Jack wasn't able to compose his first novel -- yet! This system will allow him to do with his eyes what he used to be able to do with his hands. We know there is information in his head that he can't get out, because he was able to get it out several years ago and now his hands/arms are just too weak. Everyone agreed that he is a candidate for the system (called ERICA) and we are going to get the ball rolling to get insurance to approve it. Our private insurance paid for Jack's first communication board and they should pay for this system as well. I stressed the need to get going on this asap because we are nearing year end and I don't want this ordered after the first of the year when I have to worry about deductibles and co-pays. I'm hoping I don't have to get Medicaid involved in this because it will cause nothing but delays. I'm so happy for Jack and excited about the possibilities. The sky is the limit!

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Have a wonderful and peaceful Fall weekend.

12 comments:

Anonymous said...

That is so awesome that jack is going to be able use that system I hope that insurance will get it for him, I just want to say way to go Jack keep up the good work.

becca

Anonymous said...

Oh Ann, I am so excited for Jack. What a wonderful opportunity for Jack to be able to express himself. He already does it so well with his eyes already.
Technology is abosultely incredibly. I am so grateful that this system will work for Jack. Good luck with everything.

Tess

Anonymous said...

That is extremely exciting news!!! I can't wait for Jack to have is own board and be able to talk to you!!! Wow!

Anonymous said...

Awesome, Ann!!! Way to go Jack!!!!!!

Anonymous said...

Wow. It is amazing what they can do. I am very happy that system works for Jack. I can only imagine how excited you must be. I'll be hoping that you don't have to work too hard on the insurance front. You deserve a break!

Oh, and Happy Belated Birthday to Hilary!

-Christy

Karen said...

How exciting! My heart leapt with joy when I read your post. I really want to see him talk! Hopefully he will compose his first novel soon and you can post it for all of us to see.
Go Jack, Go!

Anonymous said...

Ann- How wonderful! I am so excited for all of you, I can not wait to read Jack's first novel. I hope you have a beautiful weekend!
Lots of Love
Carrie

Anonymous said...

Ann, that is such great news! I am glad the system worked well for Jack and look forward to hearing his thoughts soon.

xxx

Anonymous said...

Ann,
What exciting news! I am so happy for Jack! Soon you'll be sharing his charming personality through his language here! I'll be sending happy thoughts that insurance approves it quickly!!!
Have a great weekend,
Jen

Anonymous said...

Ann -

That is great news. I've read a lot about those systems and I have not heard anything bad a all - only good reports of improved quality of life. I hope the insurance works out too.

- betty

Anonymous said...

hi there frm half way across the world in singapore. :)

been following your blog silently for awhile now, and i admire your perserverance and your family's sticking together thru all this. :) you are a fantastic mum and are inspiring to us out there who's kids are facing issues too.

go, jack, go! i hope this technology will open up endless opportunities for him.

take care.

Anonymous said...

That is so wonderful and exciting. I hope the approval process is fast!

Sandra