Jennifer has many strengths, however, her greatest strengths would be determination and will power. She has never taken “no” for an answer and succeeds at whatever she puts her mind to regardless of what restrictions have been placed on her.

The biggest challenge in Jennifer’s life was communicating during her time through college. Jennifer overcame this challenge by spending many hours learning how to make the Pathfinder work for her. She researched and found ways to use her Pathfinder along with the computers at school and home to help her succeed with her studies.

A major goal for Jennifer is to be employed full time using her degree in medical coding. She also wishes to live independently and continue to be an advocate and instructor to others who have communication barriers. In order to accomplish these goals Jennifer has given her all to her studies, which showed during her graduation in December of 2004 when she received her certification in medical coding. She is always willing to speak and educate others on how they too can use technology to assist them in achieving their dreams.

Jennifer has been able to program her Pathfinder to allow more independence in her home including operation of the home computer, TV, lights, radio and opening and shutting the door independently.

The Pathfinder has played a huge role in helping Jennifer fulfill her dreams. It allows her to communicate her wants/needs as well as complete work-related duties such as resume preparation, data entry and many other computer skills. Jennifer's dream to be independent would be pretty much impossible without the use of her communication device.

I feel that Jennifer is an AAC hero because she sees no mountain too big to climb. She has set her goals and achieved them while educating others and showing all of us that there is no task to great if you just set your mind to it. Jennifer's positive outlook and ability to motivate others definately makes her a hero in my mind.

Jennifer is a huge Nascar fan. When not watching Nascar, Jennifer listens to country music and loves to vacation. Jennifer's largest past time is to email and work on the Internet. She is also a fan of the outdoors.

Submitted
Renee M. Twigg