Sarah Ezekiel
I was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND), at the age of 34, shortly after giving birth to my second child. Within one year I had lost the use of my hands and my speech had begun to deteriorate rapidly.
Because I was unable to use switches, operating the communication equipment available at the time, such as on-screen keyboards and Lightwriters, was virtually impossible. As a result, I felt entirely cut off from everything and became incredibly isolated and depressed.
Eventually, I discovered EX Keys which I operated using a chin switch. This allowed me to email, surf the net, read and communicate again. However, as my condition became more aggressive, I came to realise that this option wouldn’t be open to me for much longer. Life without a computer would be completely unbearable and so it was during this period that I began to investigate alternative communication methods.
I came across Tobii Eye Gaze technology, which was a phenomenon over in America, and arranged to trial the Tobii PCEye with Steeper. Despite being dubious that I would be able to do everything with my eyes, I’ve found that I can and it’s so much faster.
It also allows me to easily complete a whole host of additional tasks. I’d always had an interest in art, but never thought I’d create anything again after I lost the use of my hands. Now though, thanks to an art software programme, I’ve been able to paint using Eye Gaze and have been selling my work online and have even held some exhibitions.
I’m also hoping to use it in conjunction with some form of environmental control too, which will give me even more freedom and independence.
My condition meant that I had become dependent on other people, but now I just need someone to switch on my laptop and I can do pretty much everything on my own. Eye Gaze gave me that independence back. Life is good.
To find out more about Sarah visit www.sarahezekiel.com. Find out more about PCEye Go or email [email protected]
To find out more, or to arrange a visit with your local Assistive Technology Product Advisor, email or call us on 0113 207 0449 today.
To find out more, or to arrange a visit with your local Assistive Technology Product Advisor, email or call us on 0113 207 0449 today.