Speaking from the heart: a story about innovation, resilience, and infinite possibilities with AAC

Communication is the cornerstone of human connection, impacting everything from our personal relationships to our professional success. This concept became heartbreakingly real for me when I was diagnosed with motor neuron disease at the age of 25. The rapid decline of my speech left me feeling all alone and isolated. After experimenting with AAC options, I yearned for a system that was lightweight, portable and stylish. This sparked my entrepreneurial spirit, leading me to assemble components catering to my diverse interests and professional pursuits. Over the years, I have built multiple AAC systems using different hardware platforms. Currently, I am focused on integrating emotional expression and faster communication speeds into AAC technology. Artificial intelligence, multi-modal inputs and non-invasive brain–computer interfaces hold immense potential for people who use AAC. Building my communication tools has revealed profound truths about living life to the fullest, accepting complete responsibility for our lives and embracing the good, the bad and the ugly. Through innovation and resilience, I have discovered infinite possibilities and I continue to use AAC to work miracles in my own life.