Newman’s Own Grant Benefits

Voice For Joanie

NEW MILFORD — Voice for Joanie, Inc, a nonprofit organization that provides assistive technology to people suffering with Lou Gehrig’s disease (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS) and other debilitating conditions, announced recently that it received a $5,000 grant from Newman’s Own Foundation.

With the grant, Voice for Joanie will purchase an Eyegaze system that will allow a person who is paralyzed and unable to speak, the ability to operate a computer, to communicate through a voice synthesizer, and to “surf the net” simply by gazing at the computer screen.

“We are excited to receive this grant from Newman’s Own Foundation,” said Voice for Joanie executive director Shirley Fredlund. “The Eyegaze system is a gift of speech for those who bodies are gripped by paralysis, but whose minds are still active and yearning for expression. And because the technology is shared with others at their own time of need, it is the gift that keeps on giving.”

For the last 19 years, Voice for Joanie has provided assistive technology, free of charge, to more than 700 people with ALS and other debilitating conditions who can no longer speak. If these individuals can blink an eye or raise an eyebrow or barely move a finger, Voice for Joanie has equipment that can overcome communication difficulties.

As ALS progresses, Voice for Joanie replaces equipment with different technology that better meets an individual’s needs. Clients can once again express their thoughts and emotions, speak with their family, friends and caregivers, and maintain some control over their environment.

For more information on the organization, or to request services, call 860-350-9034; email voiceforjoanie@juno.com; or visit www.voiceforjoanie.org.