I decided to merge both my blogs. The truth is that I am a member of Javyland and there's no reason for me to have a separate blog just about me. All of my goals and aspirations are because of Javy. So there you go.......
Javy got his iPad. I'm not sure if I've ranted about this before, last year, Javy's speech therapist started using an iPad at school for communication. Instead of Javy using a picture board to make decisions, he can use an iPad. It's actually perfect for him. They're not as cumbersome as most Assistive Devices that have small buttons to push. He can swipe and touch, no matter how tight his hands are. But the problem is that the school won't let him bring it home. But its for communication, you say. I felt like it needed to be used consistently, at home and school. This was a great worry of mine for a few months.
It just so happens that someone who happens to work for Hawaiian Airlines, asked me how Javy was doing. She has known Javy since we moved to Kauai, because we fly out so much going to doctors on Oahu. I guess, since this was the foremost worry in my head, the conversation turned to the subject iPads and me ranting about the school not letting him take it home. I explained how I was trying to save for one, even collecting cans and bottles that I find on the road while I walk my dog. It was almost like I was praying-my heart bursting, laying out my greatest desire. Work distracted us and we went about our business.
Later, that day, this dear person approached me and said that a few of the ladies who work together for Hawaiian Airlines would like to buy Javy an iPad. I started to cry, it was such an unexpected blessing. I never imagined, coming to work that morning that such a great relief could happen, just talking to a friend. So they did, they bought Javy an iPad.
IPads are really an amazing piece of technology. Javy responds to it, instantly. He has been able to tell me what he's wanted when he's fussy and I can't figure out what is going on. He can also read stories by himself. Well, he's not reading it, but he can touch the screen and the iPad magical voice reads it to him.
Also, I found this app called Pictello. I can create picture stories for him. I think that this is really good for stimulating his mind. I plan on making stories of everything. I'm working on one of all of his friends and family. More than that, this app will relieve another worry of mine. This may seem silly to some, but I often think what if something happened to everyone who really knows Javy. I mean truly knows how to read Javy, knows how really funny and lovable he is. What he likes, doesn't like. What his faces mean. This app can create a legacy for Javy to carry on in the future without me. Hey, I'm not trying to be depressing, it's a reality of life. Think about it, most people are able to communicate their history and heritage. Javy won't be able to and I will not be around forever to do it. I want everyone to know how wonderful he is and not to take him for granted.
Thank you to the ladies at Hawaiian Airlines and thank you, Steve Jobs! May you rest in peace.
