My uncle has Cerebral Palsy, a disability that was caused from a lack of oxygen to the brain at birth. Though the range of function for this disability is vast, my uncle cannot speak nor walk. He is 43 years old now and the doctors said he would not live past the age of 5, so he is no doubt a miracle. With today's technology he can communicate, not just through eye rolls or sounds but through iPads and other touch technology that allows him to express his feelings and wants. Though my grandparents (his caretakers) have attempted some of the technology we are looking forward to the next couple months as we await an iPad that can give Larry the voice we so desperately want to hear.
For some reason the idea of "leveling the playing field" through technology really makes me excited, and I want to revisit that idea again and again. Its the idea that humans can create something so wonderful that it gives a voice to the voiceless and allows those that never imagined walking to walk. Its about hope. Technology inspires people to go beyond themselves and create something new, something that tests boundaries and pushes people to their full potential....wait I take that back....it pushes people to realize there is no potential only room from growth. Not only do I await in anticipation that I can hear my uncle speak but I am excited because there is so much more to come and I have hope in that.
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