Communication Device for Reno

My Name is Vickie Dykes I am the Activity Director for Lamar Estates. I am raising money for Reno Bentley. Reno is an amazing person that needs your help. Reno is 59 years old and has lived in a nursing homes since he was 34 years old after he fell off a 12’ scaffold onto the concrete floor. Reno has a closed head injury with quadriplegia, Dysphonia and Dysarthria. Reno’s hands are contracted and are becoming more so each day. Reno currently uses a hand made pointer that is placed in his contracted hand to type on his DynaVox.  This is becoming more and more difficult due to his contractures and not being able to lift his arm and turn his hand to reach all the letters. He is in need of a new computer with eye gaze capabilities for communication. The computer that he currently has is not compatible with the eye gaze due to the age of the computer.  The eye gaze would give Reno a new sense of being as he will be able to look at a letter and it will type it for him. His communication would improve and I believe so would his moral. Reno is a loving and funny man that has become at times sad and frustrated because he cannot communicate like he wants. Reno enjoys joking with staff, participating in activities. Reno also uses his computer to control his television and DVD player. Reno is an avid sports watcher and specially enjoys the Denver Broncos and the Colorado Rockies. We have tried the traditional route and at this time we are unable to get what we need, due to insurance guidelines. Reno has a fantastic personality and enjoys joking with staff and smiles and laughs most of the time. The only independence that Reno has at this time is his communication board that he is slowly becoming unable to use. A new computer w/eye-tracking capability will help Reno retain some of his independence and help him communicate more efficiently. Reno found God in 1974 and his faith is a large part of his life. Reno states he is praying for the help that he needs to get this equipment and will be forever grateful to whoever is willing to help him get the independence he so greatly deserves. The cost of a new computer with the eye gaze is 14,945.00 Reno currently does not have the money to buy this equipment that he so desperately needs. Any help you can give his is greatly appreciated and will never be forgotten.