As a free-lance writer and public speaker, I share our family’s experience with raising a child with special needs who uses Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC); transitioning to the workforce; collaborating with specialists; and including/involving family members with disabilities in a family business.  My husband, Mark, is a NYS Fire Protection Specialist who has shared this passion with our son, Nick. Even though it is at a different level–it is their common ground.  Our daughter, Emily, is carrying forth her desire to help others by pursuing a career in Public & Community Health.

On this site I have shared some of my experience modifying curriculum, programming Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices that use speech generating software and using low-tech AAC in conjunction with both public school and homeschooling programs as well as in transition planning for employment and independent or shared living for the young adult with special needs. I am working to update this site.

I am forever grateful to the Speech-Language Pathologists and many graduate clinicians at Ithaca College, as well as many other therapists and specialists, who have partnered with our family throughout the years.  Much of what we have been able to accomplish is due to their guidance and support.

May you be encouraged in your endeavors to help your loved ones, students, or clients reach their full communication potential by what you read here.