Finding His Voice

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My son Wade has been using a speech-generating device for about two years, yet it still blows my mind that he can talk. Though his language isn’t perfect, he can get his point across. I always get excited when he starts a conversation and asks questions. 

We have an eight-month-old goldendoodle puppy named Emma, who is being trained to be Wade’s service dog. When we went to the pet store a couple of weeks ago, Wade asked, “What does she need?” I suggested getting Emma a few new toys, and he said, “Toy elephant, toy deer.”

When we got to the toy aisle, Wade said, “elephant.” Sure enough, there was a big, blue stuffed elephant. Of course, I had to buy it.

When I picked it up, Wade said, “lap.” So, I secured it under the belt of his wheelchair.

It’s so exciting to shop with Wade. He’s able to tell me what aisle he wants to go down and when to stop. He shows me what to look at. It’s incredible — even if he can be demanding. It makes my heart so happy to know what he wants. The speech-generating device has changed our world.

When we finally made it to the checkout counter, I placed everything on the belt. I chatted with the cashier a bit and paid. Then, as I started to push Wade forward, he said, “elephant toy.” I forgot it was still sitting on his lap.

Wade knew we didn’t pay for it and said something. He kept us from shoplifting. Just another reason I’m so thankful Wade has found his voice.

You can read more information on the Assistive Technology and Adaptive Equipment page.