Thankyou notes
To whom it may concern:Hi, you do not know me but I know you. I was recently diagnosed with A.L.S. , Lou Gehrig disease. Since most cases are not the same, as to the progression of the disease, mine is called Bulbar A.L.S. , which starts in the region at the top of my spinal cord, which has left me without the ability to speak, as my tongue no longer will let me shape my words and push the food around, so that I may swallow.
With my arms and legs still functional and my ability to think okay, and with no pain you might agree that it could be a lot worse, and you would be right. No, cure has yet been found but they have made some progress. Thus a continuing feeling of despair and a greater one of frustration.
My life has not been without obstacles but, who is perfect, no one although we sometimes are not willing to admit this. Needless to say I felt alone at times and feeling sorry for myself. For me the delight has been my family and my faith in God.
All my adult life I made my living in sales. As a salesman I needed to sell myself, and the product, and the company. In conversation I was able to convey my thoughts and knowledge of the products to the customer and make the sale. Not being able to do this anymore and having to retire on disability. Not being able to work left my cash flow will real low, and my expenses still high. A friend of mine called me to tell me about an article in one of the computer magazines. He knew the problems I was having and it was just what I needed. Voice for Joanie was the organization name. He called and spoke to Shirley Fredlund. Shirley called me to tell me what she could offer me to make my life bearable and to once again convey my thoughts and my needs to others. We made an appointment, what can I say, Voice for Joanie has opened the door that was closed.
I can now talk to my friends, let my family know that I am alright and say the things that I need and want to say, without feeling that they do not understand me. Not being able to afford the equipment, computer, voice synthesizer (multi Voice ), a printer, telephone amplifier and the software to run it, Voice for Joanie has made a profound change in my life. I hope after reading this letter you will understand what you have contributed to me and others like me, through Voice for Joanie, re: Shirley Fredlund
My sincere thanks and my hope that you will continue to help others like myself who are unable to communicate and are shut off from others.
My best to you and your organization
Douglas