Shirley is in need now of donations to allow her to continue to make generous donations to those who request help. Please won't you consider donating, so Shirley will be able to fullfill all the requests for assistance. Please note Voice For Joanie receives it's funding solely from your donations, not from the ALS Association.
As always if you or someone you know with ALS is in need of technology to help better communicate please contact Shirley.
To make a tax-deductible donationPlease send donations to:
Voice For Joanie
5 Glenwood Road
New Milford, CT 06776
15 Years of Giving the Gift of Speech to Victims of Lou Gehrig's Disease
As Voice For Joanie enters the 16th year of providing voice communicators, free of charge for as long as needed, to people unable to speak, often unable to do more than blink because they have Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS), we continue to meet a very pressing need. Voice for Joanie has assisted over 510 by providing the gift of speech and improved the quality of life to these individuals.
Shirley,I thought of a few things I want to share with you. In parts of 04 and last year I began having problems with depression, after I finally recognized that I needed help.
I went to speak with a psychologist several times during the summer, and then a psychiatrist for the first time. I needed the mic box to speak every word. I was prescribed the proper medication and overcame my depression.
I had an old friend who spent time with me. He was able to work with me on the computer, teaching me how to better use my computer, my software program, found the art software that I now use. I used the mic to communicate every word. This art software has allowed me to continue doing artwork, when using my arms became almost impossible.
The microphone has helped me communicate more with my family, especially all my nieces. It has allowed me a chance to speak a little when several people are in the conversation, or when I'm outdoors. It's very helpful when I'm having a day with throat pain or weakness.
It's very hard when you have a lot to say, and you can't express yourself the way you want to.
Thank you, Tom
Voice for Joanie, Inc. is a 501©3 non-profit, all-volunteer organization, therefore, we depend on donations from the general public to purchase assistive technology. Your gift will help us to continue this very important free service. God bless you and thank you so very much.
Sincerely,
Shirley A. Fredlund, Founder and Volunteer Executive Director