http://ozarkspub.vo.llnwd.net/o37/KSMU/audio/mp3/technology_430.mp3
The wide-rangeof technological devices available to individuals with disabilities allows themto access the computer. KSMU's Missy Shelton has the story of one man whose life has changed thanks to a high-tech straw.
Images from his motorcycle accident still haunt David Green'he says he clearly remembers the other vehicle involved in the accident driving away, leaving him seriously injured. Missy server-david3a region-runs :12 Because of injuries sustained during that accident last year, David green is a quadriplegic. He has limited movement. But a sip and puff straw has enabled him to use a computer. He explains how it works. Missy server-david4a region-runs :09 With the sip and puff straw, David writes letters, chats with relatives and surfs the web. David's family purchased the computer for him. He says having access to a computer helps stave off loneliness, something he dealt with on a regular basis before getting the computer. Missy server-david2a-f regions-runs :18 David received the sip and puff straw from Judith Peavy, a speech and language pathologist and the assistive technology specialist at the Missouri rehabilitation center in mount Vernon. She says there's technology to allow almost all disabled individuals to use a computer. Missy server-newjudy3a, new3c, 3d, 3e, new3f regions-runs :42 Those on-screen keyboards allow peavey to choose a mouse style that will accommodate the needs of the individual. Even for those who can't move anything other than their eyes, there's something called an eye mouse that allows them to use the computer. Peavey demonstrates how it works. Missy server-judy4a-new4e, 4f regions-runs :21 And for those individuals who can't even use an eye mouse, there are still options. Peavey describes a device that's on the cutting edge of technology. Missy server-judy5a-d regions-runs :47 In the meantime, David green says he's thankful for his sip and puff straw. He says it's changed his life. Missy server-david1a, 1c, 1d regions-runs :24