A photo of Ross working on his speech with his Speech Therapist, Danielle Waterhouse. Dani meets with Ross, two days a week now. Starting to see some improvements with his speech and reading; he is so motivated which is great to see!
Firstly, on behalf of Ross and myself, we would like to say a big thank you to everyone who has so kindly donated to ‘givealittle’ – ‘A Voice for Ross.’ We have been completely overwhelmed with all your generosity! I must apologise however, for not posting an update sooner, about Ross’s Speech Therapy and thanking you all. Due to commitments, we were not able to commence Speech Therapy until June.
There are so many aspects of communication that Ross would dearly love to be able to use again. As he was diagnosed with Global Aphasia and Dyspraxia, his goals are many which include being able to talk, read, write and understand. When asked about his high priority goals, Ross indicated talking and reading.
At this stage, we are booked in for eight, one hour session blocks, with a break in between each block. Below is a very brief outline of what the Speech Therapist has set for Ross.
Reading – Ross is practising reading from Zinio (emagazines) on his iPad everyday. A small paragraph takes him 2-3 days to read. Ross has to fill in a reading log to see his improvement.
Speech – Lots of drills! The goal is to increase from his 1 or 2 words to phrases.
Communication Book – The Speech Therapist is planning to make up a communication book for Ross that will have everyday words, names, places, templates for txts and emails, questions etc.
Ross is working very hard every day and I am monitoring his tiredness as at the end of each week, he is exhausted! (This includes going to the university for the Aphasia Clinic- working on computer skills/media this term; Gavel Club (Toast Masters for Aphasia); going to Jellie Park Gym and his Speech Therapy sessions!)
Once again, thank you for your kindness and generosity, we are truly so grateful.
Ross and Louise
Ross has been practising reading emagazines in Zinio on his iPad.
