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Please help
I'm running this site single-handedly
on the measly fixed income of $52 a month given to me by my nursing
home, it is called a Personal Needs Allowance. (this amount
hasn't changed in the eight years I've been here). I'm supposed to
supply my own clothing; toiletries; and many other things the home
doesn't provide.
Now at age 52; I’ve lived with a
genetic, progressive disorder known as "Friedreich’s
Ataxia" all my life (which deteriorates my physical
coordination).
Having no family or friends in the
area to help financially, makes running this web site very
difficult.
Please donate what you can to help
keep "computers for the seriously disabled" advocacy-work
alive.
THE ISSUE AT
HAND:
State and/or federal legislation should be implemented which require health facilities to send in a social worker (or other qualified professional) to visit competent seriously injured/disabled, hospitalized in-patients or nursing home residents, with the intent of clarifying that:
1. assistive technology input/output devices replace standard keyboards, monitors, or mice so that people with quadriplegia, blindness, or other serious conditions can effectively operate a computer
2. aid in obtaining and setting up of these computers and devices will be provided; thus cutting through the red tape
3. a bed top is sufficient space for an adaptive assembly
4. an adapted computer with access to the Internet (which could include attending online university courses and/or becoming employable) can improve life considerably
5. organizations exist to help provide computers; adaptive devices; and training.
An Important cause
Computers adapted for the seriously disabled are indeed, an essential, assistive
therapy. These computers
(specially equipped with alternative
input/ output devices) should be freely
available in the United States and other developed countries.
The therapeutic benefits amount to a powerful, mind healing, self-esteem
building, panacea, and should never be overlooked as a viable medical treatment.
I’ve experienced and seen the
therapeutic effect computers have on those with
disabilities. That said, I have come to the deep-seated, conclusion
that "computers for those with disabilities" isn’t just
a good idea; it should be thought of as an absolute
"necessity."
Hopefully, soon, others will agree
that "computers for the seriously disabled", is not only
beneficial, but one who's time has come. People should realize how
important computers can be to the disabled. It is vital that the
"mind" is healed as well as the body.
For more information on the benefits
of computers for those with disabilities see Computer
response therapy
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Help insure
that people with disabilities get adapted computers: contact your
congressperson online in a few simple steps. 
