FILOMENA TRIPP was born without fully developed arms and legs because of a congenital anomaly. After contacting SHARE, Filomena received an adaptive computer system and Dragon voice recognition software that allows her to talk rather than type to perform data entry tasks. Filomena has spent her career as an independent living advocate providing skills training, peer counseling and support for individuals transitioning from nursing care facilities. Most recently, she achieved her lifelong dream, authoring her autobiography “Invisible Courage” to inspire others to embrace every possibility and pursue life to the fullest.
SAM KIRK has limited mobility and control in his arms and hands, physical challenges that make it very difficult for him to use a keyboard. After he reached out to SHARE, our engineering team provided Sam with an adaptive computer system and speech software programs that enabled him to attend graduate school, write 42 papers, and earn a master’s degree in social work, specializing in end-of-life care. Today this assistive technology is a vital communication tool that allows him to help critically ill patients access medical care and housing. “SHARE allowed me to communicate in ways that weren’t possible before,” Sam said, “and it changed my life.”
DAN EVERETT became paralyzed as a result of injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident. Because he is unable to use his hands, SHARE initially provided him with assistive technologies that allow him to independently operate his cell phone and television. More recently, SHARE provided Dan with a computer featuring an adaptive interface that allows him to access the Internet. Through ongoing SHARE training sessions, Dan has gained practical computer skills that enable him to check emails, access bank statements, and stay in touch with others on Facebook. Dan said that he is most impressed that SHARE Client Services Coordinator Beverly Thorn has followed him as he’s moved from different rehabilitation and care facilities in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. “She stuck with me from day one,” Dan said. “Whenever I need her, Beverly comes out and helps me.”