”Motivation increased success.” This brief statement found in Regina Jackson’s communication assessment which was included in her application was key to the Eric Fund’s decision to award her with a new Flash Deluxe Kit Speech Generating Device (SGD). 

Regina, 10, is non-verbal as a result of cerebral palsy and mild mental retardation, and relies on facial expressions combined with crude vocalizations to communicate her needs. Her mother says that she is a happy child known for her big smiles which enable her to communicate her emotions effectively without words or vocabulary. Although her communication skills are significantly limited, the clinician who evaluated her language skills, commented during her evaluation, that “motivation incresased success.” 

Like other children her age, Regina enjoys using the computer and attending school. Her two biggest passions are riding horses, which she does once a week in the therapeutic riding class that she participates in, and swimming. It is our hope that her new Deluxe Flash Kit SGD will motivate her toward increased success on her journey toward independence!

Benjamin Glantz is a happy and enthusiastic 14-year-old boy who loves school, and particularly likes reading and using the computer. Due to severe hypotonia and motor planning dysfunction, Benjamin relies on assistive technology for most of his communication, and without an augmentative communication device he has minimal ability to express his needs. 

Ben’s need for a communication device has never been greater. The outdated device loaned to him by the public school he attends was not replaced when it recently stopped working and Ben suddenly found himself unable to communicate, interact socially or participate fully in the classroom. 

The Eric Fund is very thrilled to be able to assist Ben and his family in securing a new Prentke Romich Vantage Plus augmentative communication device which will ensure his ability to thrive and maximize his potential not only in the classroom, but also at home and at play.

Tyla Briana Julius-Kumbah is a five year-old-girl with cerebral palsy who is blessed with a mother who is a tenacious advocate for her special needs.  She was very grateful to find out about the Eric Fund from a family friend!

Tyla’s mom describes her as a happy child who enjoys music with a particular fondness for Alicia Keyes.  In fact, Tyla insists on playing the CD that she owns so often her mother wishes she would expand her repertoire!

The wheelchair that Tyla uses at school cannot be used in their home, and the seating system that her family uses to transport her up and down stairs and to the bus everyday is becoming increasingly cumbersome to lift as Tyla grows. 

Her mother was thrilled to learn that the Eric Fund is able to purchase a Convaid Tilting STroller System for Tyla. This system will provide a basic, but extermely important need for their family: the ability to easily get Tyla in and out of their home ... the first step toward a more active life with her friends and family in the community!