Eye-gaze technology life changing for 15-year-old Alberta boy

With just the right gaze, 15-year-old Jacob Wynder can communicate like never before, and just talking about it brings his mom to tears.

“It has opened up Jacob’s world,” Jennifer said. “We have a pretty good world happening, in our home, and school and community. Jacob has people who love him and support him and it’s wonderful, but this technology opens up Jacob’s world.

“It helps him express himself, it helps us to know what’s going on in there, in his head.”

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Jacob uses eye-gaze technology, a computer-based communication device operated through a computer screen along with his eyes. In just a few short weeks, it has been life changing.

READ MORE: Teen with disability fights for right to communicate

Occupational therapist Shobha George with Children’s Allied Health said watching Jacob learn the technology has been amazing.

“It has been absolutely amazing because we are learning as we go as well and, we’ve always seen the potential in every kid that we work with,” George said. “It’s just fun to see him say things nobody expected him to say.”

Jacob has cerebral palsy and with this new technology, he’s been able to show his family, friends and complete strangers his personality.

“They can see him…A lot of people see the chair; I want them to see the boy before the chair, so this helps,” Jennifer added.

Jocelyn Roberts with Children’s Allied Health said Jacob has had a long journey, with some obstacles along the way.

Jacob’s mom hopes by sharing his story, other parents see the potential in the use of technology.

“I want people to know there are amazing, incredible things that can happen from a wheelchair. I want families to know that when you bring home that little baby, who’s amazing, and you have all the doctors telling you all kinds of scenarios, it’s not the end.

“It’s the beginning of something new and different, but beautiful and amazing.”

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