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Nick's Story

Summer Camp at Camp Squamish and the Meaning of the Liberator

Image: Nick! To me, the Liberator meant that I could make connections to different people and communicate with them more independently and privately. This made me feel happy, empowered, and opened up a world of possibilities that will allow me to work and make goals in my life. For example, with my Liberator, I helped a boy who was homesick day two of the camp.

I also met some friends like Corey and Ashley and my Liberator allowed me to communicate with them. In our conversations, we shared our goals and dreams and I know that it is with my liberator that one day I'll be a great Playwright.

Sincerely, Nick

Background

When Nick arrived in British Columbia two years ago he had a speech output device that did not completely meet his communciation needs. So, SET-BC and Sunnyhill worked with Nick's school team to identify a Voice Output Communication Aid (VOCA) which would allow Nick to speak "his own thoughts" rather than being restricted to preprogrammed communication messages.

Nick's eyes lit up the first time he saw the Liberator. He knew it was exactly what he wanted. The plan for Nick to acquire a Liberator through the SET-BC loan bank was underway. Aroga Technologies arranged a short term loan of a liberator to Nick's school team to support his training plan.

Communication Mode Evolves

Initially, Nick used the spelling mode to express his thoughts. SET-BC provided introductory Minspeak training but Nick preferred to type his messages. Consequently, the communication partner was required to read the message on the LCD screen display, even though speech output was an available option. Next, Nick progressed to using the voice output capability of the liberator. And currently, Nick is actively studying Minspeak.

Camp Experiences

Image: Nick hanging out with friends Image: Nick and friends having fun at camp

Camp opportunities provided inspiration for Nick. In 2000, Nick attended GF Strong Summer Camp where he wrote a play which the campers performed. In the summer of 2000, he attended Virtual Voices Camp at Camp Squamish, that was co-sponsored by SET-BC and the BC Lions Club. Nick says he had a wonderful time, met other Minspeak users, and is now eager to learn Minspeak in earnest. This year Nick is studying Minspeak and will receive a language course credit toward graduation. Well done, Nick!