Typing

Garren continues to amaze us. Yesterday we had someone stop by the house with some switches. These are buttons that can be pushed to make something happen. For example, one hooks up to a little power strip. A lamp can be plugged into the strip. The switch is a simple clicking mechanism that Garren can push to turn a lamp on and off, or a fan, or a radio, whatever we want to plug in.

Another device she left with us connects to the computer via the USB port. Using the onscreen keyboard, this switch can be used to select letters from the keyboard, so Garren can type messages. So today I set it up for Garren to try it out. But that guy decided to forego the switch altogether! He went straight for the keyboard. It takes a while. It gives a whole new meaning to the term "hunt and peck." But Garren slowly but surely typed out a couple of words. His first word? "Steelers."

It is very slow and laborious at this point. But it is excellent therapy. He is continuing to train his muscles and fine tune his abilities. I did some research and found the iPad has some pretty cool apps that can help people like Garren communicate. I had already told Garren several weeks back that as soon as he could use it, I would buy him an iPad 2. Well, now it's time to come clean on my promise. So I went out to buy one today - and they are completely out of stock....everywhere! I guess we'll have to place our order and wait the 2-3 weeks for it to get here. In the mean time we have a laptop that Garren will continue to use. Watch out people - he may be updating his status on Facebook sometime soon!

I worked with Garren some this afternoon on swallowing, and strengthening his tongue. He did get some swallows in. That's a praise. I pray that he continues to get that swallow stronger! He told Nancy today that he's ready for some Five Guys!