Ian’s communication device is the most important part of his life.  In 1992, he received a “Yes I Can” award, one of 33 throughout the USA and Canada.  He has also received an award from Ohio State Governor George Voinovich for Most Improved in Education.  We give credit to his communication devices for these accomplishments.  Without his AAC, Ian would not be able to use a computer.  He can go anywhere and make himself understood in any kind of situation. 

With his LightTalker and Liberator, Ian used a joystick, but with the Vanguard the joystick was too slow.  With the help of PRC, a knee switch was installed and he hasn’t stopped talking since.  Ian has demonstrated his AAC to a university class of speech therapy students several times.  One of the most important uses of his Vanguard was a speech he made before members of the Finance Committee of the State of Ohio at the state capital pleading them not to make cuts in Medicaid benefits.  PRC and the people who work there are an ongoing part of Ian’s life, especially TSR Kevin Kobelt. 
For recreation, Ian likes to go bowling and goes to see the Dayton Bombers play ice hockey.

Ian uses his Vanguard for communication and also to complete vocational goals.  He completes computer tasks as part of his vocational training at United Rehabilitation Services Adult Workshop.  Ian is able to access the computer through his Vanguard in order to complete tasks as well as for social purposes (i.e., internet, email, etc.). 

Ian is a great example for his peers and others around him.  Recently, he agreed to begin assisting the SLP at United Rehabilitation Services.  He completes all his own programming on the Vanguard and has agreed to do some work programming devices for other users who are not able to do this for themselves. 

Submitted by Brandi-Lynn Greig, SLP