Up until two years ago, if someone had told me I would be living with quadriplegia, I would have thought it a very bad joke. But life is an interesting journey, to say the least.
Following a freak accident whilst on holiday in late 2009, I found myself thrust into the world of spinal injury and the mountain of challenges it presents. At the time of the accident, I thought I had lost everything — in particular, my independence. Unable to move my hands or body below my chest, undertaking the simplest of tasks seemed impossible. As an occupational therapist and a person with a severe physical limitation, I’m a strong believer in the power of technology in helping people with disability gain back independence and integrate into the community.
One week before I left hospital I was given an iPad and iPhone, which changed my life. Rather than rely on others to type for me, turn pages of a book, play music and games, I could now do this myself without a splint or any help.
Nowadays, I shop, communicate with friends, even plan my wedding all from my beloved iPad! My latest project is using the iPad as an environmental control unit to control my TV, lights and front door.
I honestly believe that until there is a cure for spinal injury, technology and universal design is the key for people to master their environment and become valued contributors to the community. Can’t wait to see what the future holds.
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