Ernest is diagnosed with cortical visual impairment secondary to cerebral atrophy in the occipital and parietal lobes due to a possible stroke in utero. Ernest is also on a ketogenic diet to control seizures.
Ernest has been such a joy to our family and a special blessing to all he meets. Physically and verbally, he is very limited, but he is able to express so much delight and enjoyment through his beautiful smile and laugh. Because of his many physical and neurological barriers, finding a consistent way to communicate with him has been a real challenge, but yet I can tell in sweet little things he does, special coos and broad grins, that he does understand more than we realize. His therapists at school have been testing a wide variety of different buttons with him and it’s such a joy to see his great excitement when he is able to successfully choose even the most simple things. We really feel like this technology will open a whole new door for our son with how he is able to interact with us and his siblings. It will open a window of independence for him that otherwise he may never have been able to achieve.
Ernest is a nonverbal communicator that is unable to rely on his speech for his communication needs. Currently, he is dependent on his family, teachers and peers to interpret his wants and need based on his facial expressions, vocalizations and body language. We know Ernest has so much sweet personality and love to share with us and a gift of an iPad, money to support a communication app, and a mount for his wheelchair would provide Ernest and his family with the tools and the amazing gift to communicate as a family. #varietykckids
If you, like Variety, believe every kid should be social, be active, and belong – please donate today – www.VarietyKC.org/donate
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