Profile of Success - Jim Wintrow

Hi, my name is Jim. I am 46 years old and I am a non-verbal quadriplegic with cerebral palsy. I was born this way.

My family helped me do everything. They helped feed me, dress me and help me with anything else I needed done. I went to Gorman School and then to Grace A. Greene -- both in Dayton, Ohio. I graduated from Grace A. Greene School when I was 21.

I moved out of my parent's home into an apartment of my own when I was in my early 30's. Now I live with a roommate and we enjoy our freedom. We have caregivers here most of the time but we can be alone for up to four hours. We each have our own interests. I like the Browns and Michigan. I like movies, going out to eat and rock music.

With the help of my augmentative communication device called Vanguard, manufactured by the Prentke Romich Company, I can turn on my stereo, TV and VCR. I can order pizza if I want to and I get on my computer and check for jobs and check my e-mail.

I am an ambassador for Prentke Romich Company. I go to speak at colleges, seminars and other groups. I have spoken at Goodwill Industries; Wayne Industries in Greenville, Ohio; Edison Community College in Piqua; and Wright State University. A few months ago, I spoke at the Ohio Speech, Language and Hearing conference in Dayton. I enjoy speaking to groups about my AAC device and about the struggles I face and also about my triumphs.

Please visit my website or send me an e-mail for more information. I enjoy hearing from people who are in similar situations. Thanks!