User Stories

The mission of Accessibility Services, Inc. (ASI) extends far beyond developing technology.  The motto our founder Fred Thompson established more than three decades ago still holds true today: “Start with the customer and work backwards.”

No disease or injury is exactly the same.  We work with therapists, caregivers and other healthcare providers to provide user-friendly solutions that are customized to accommodate the needs of the individuals we serve.

Meet Mr. Brian Newton.  Brian is 54 years of age and a veteran of the United States Air Force.  After serving his country, he found a lucrative career in hardware and software sales for the oncology industry.  However, nine years ago, his life suddenly changed forever.  At only 45 years old, he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

In August 2014, Brian received his first autonoME. It has afforded him the independence of being able to send e-mails, interact on social media, stream live television and videos, conduct banking and more. Brian’s disease has progressed to where he is in a wheelchair and has difficulty moving and using his hands.  He now operates the autonoME using the Eye Gaze input method.

“I would be dependent upon someone else to do the things I’m able to do with the autonoME,” explains Brian. “It keeps me independent.”

According to John Sanders, Service Manager for Accessibility Services, Inc. (ASI), Brian is one of the best Eye Gaze users he has ever seen.

“He is very proficient at it, better than anyone on our staff,” says Sanders. “Eye Gaze gives Brian a significantly improved quality of life and the independence to communicate and perform so many tasks that otherwise would require the assistance of a caregiver.”

The autonoME is designed specifically for individuals with severe spinal cord injuries or progressive diseases such as ALS.

“Providing people like Brian with freedom, independence and quality of life is the sole reason we do what we do,” explains Brice Green, VP of Business Development for ASI. “The individuals we serve are much more than just customers.  They become part of our family.”

Brian says he appreciates the ASI support staff who are “always there when I need help.”  He recommends the autonoME to others who would like to improve their quality of life.

“You will be free,” says Newton.  “It’s a game changer.  I wouldn’t be here if I did not have this!”

Despite his disease, Brian serves as a shining example of someone who has made the absolute best out of the curveballs life has thrown his way.  His advice to those reading this story is simple:

“Live life.”

 

A few weeks ago, a story aired on ABC Action News (WFTS) in Tampa, Florida about a gentleman named Robert McGruder and his friend, Eric Chapman.  Eric has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).  He dreams of having a covered outdoor patio to enjoy what precious time he has left. Constructing a patio is quite costly, so Robert put some of his most prized possessions up for auction to raise money for Eric’s patio.

Our Program Director, Lisa Swiger, was deeply touched by this story about Eric and his friend Robert.  Although the money needed to build Eric’s patio was raised as a result of the news story, Lisa wanted to do more. ABC Action News reporter Cameron Polom was kind enough to put ASI in touch with Eric and his lovely wife, Margarita.  Last week, Lisa, along with ASI technician John Sanders, traveled to their Tampa residence to install an environmental control unit (ECU) for Eric.  The ECU – equipped with eyegaze technology so he can control the device with his eyes – will not only assist him with communicating, but Eric will now be able to turn on lights, surf the Internet and even control his television on his own.  ASI plans to also install an automatic door opener for Eric once his deck is built.

Lisa had an opportunity to spend a lot of time with Margarita.  Both Margarita and Eric are upbeat and ever so sweet.  Despite Eric’s disease, they are both still smiling and living life.  The family is on a very fixed income as Eric is unable to work and Margarita is now his full time caregiver.  Margarita indicated she attempted in the past to obtain an ECU for Eric, but kept running into obstacles.

This beautiful couple touched our hearts.  We are honored to help and be part of their lives!

What the ECU Means to Eric and Margarita – Margarita’s Words:

“With much thanks and gratitude to both Lisa and Brice at ASI for making it possible for Eric to have a fully functional device such as the ECU. This act of kindness has allowed for Eric to finally be able to check his own Facebook, send text messages, change the television channel, and soon, be able to open a door!! Amazing right? What does having the ECU bring to our life: a sense of independence, of freedom.

The moment I heard Lisa’s laughter enter my room, I knew I had to go meet the woman who owned such an innocent giggle and contagious laughter. Lisa saw the ABC Action News clip that shared Robert McGruder’s quest to build Eric a patio. She was so touched by the story that she felt she had to not only meet us in person, but to also enhance Eric’s lifestyle. She did both with pure selflessness.

I believe that the most valuable possession we humans have is TIME.

So, when Brice, Lisa, John & Gina gave 4 + hours of their day to hang with Eric & I in our home, I can happily say – We are Blessed.”

Actually, Margarita – it is we who are Blessed.  Thank you for sharing your lives and story!