Jack Update

Note to Jen in Texas - we moved from Phoenix to St. Louis in 1996 so Hilary could attend CID/The Moog School. We moved back to Phoenix in 2002. If private insurance doesn't pay for the device, our Department of Developmental Disabilities will - however, then they own the system - not us, which I don't like. Our private insurance is typically very good and should cover this device. Thanks for your input though, it's much appreciated.

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Jack tried out the eye response system from Eye Tech today. This system is so much easier than the other system to calibrate Jack's eyes and you only have to calibrate it once, not every time you use it (unlike the other system). Hopefully our insurance company won't "choke" at the $12,000 price tag! Here is a video clip of him using the system. His eyes are moving the cursor and, as you can see, he is all over the place. It will take awhile for him to learn to stay focused long enough to make a choice - but everyone feels confident that Jack will figure it out and do great things with the system. What was so awesome was hearing how excited Jack was to make something work with his eyes . . . you can hear his gleeful voice in the video.

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

We are two weeks post radiation and the results so far have been negligible. I emailed Jack's neurologist asking how radiation that is powerful enough to kill cancer can't stop the saliva from flowing. He told me not to give up yet, that he has seen it take between 4 and 6 weeks for maximum results. So we wait and hope for tangible results. Just another lesson in patience . . .

If things go well, the remainder of this week should be uneventful and quiet. May you all have a peaceful week.

Ciao