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IT can change lives

Carrie St Freedman, AbilityNet

Open Door - August 2006 pages 8-9

For many people with MS, particularly those with reading, writing or communication difficulties, a computer can be a real lifeline. Equipped with the right hardware and software adaptations to meet their personal needs, many previously impossible tasks - such as writing a letter, keeping a diary, following a course of study, banking or shopping on line - can be achieved.

Computer technology can level the playing field by minimising problems and differences and can open up new horizons in education, work and leisure by helping people become less isolated and more independent. We can all be equal in front of the screen with the correct help and support. Whether symptoms are physical or visual, there are adaptations to aid full computer and Internet access.

Laura's story

When Laura was diagnosed with MS, in 1996, she was working as a nurse, leading an active and demanding existence. Over the past ten years she has lost much of her mobility, dexterity and sight. At first, adapting to her new life as a wheelchair user was a challenge too many: "I resented losing my independence, became very withdrawn and bitter and spent a lot of time lying in bed sulking," she says.

However, with help from family and friends and the support of the AbilityNet, Laura has become an enthusiastic computer user with a joie de vivre that impresses all who meet her.

AbilityNet assessed Laura's technological needs and built her an adapted system, tailored to her own requirements. She uses zoom text to make the screen's contents as large as she wants and an Intellikeys keyboard to accommodate her dexterity problems. If her eyes are too tired, she can also use voice recognition software for 'hands free' computing.

Laura's philosophy is a simple one: "Life doesn't stop just because you have MS - you are still you and have plenty to offer and achieve!" With a BSc Hons in Social Sciences from the Open University under her belt, testimony to her newfound confidence in IT, Laura is about to commence an MSc in Social Research Methods - a strategic choice with an eye firmly on a future career, working from home via... the Internet of course!

Laura's computer is a 'flexible friend' and she sees no reason why others cannot benefit in the same way: "MS shouldn't stop you fulfilling your potential - you may have to adapt your aspirations and look for new horizons, but with the Internet there to help you, the world is on your screen.

"I used to be a technophobe - but those days are long gone. My computer is an essential part of my day, it keeps me mentally agile and provides me with a huge range of entertainment options, as well as enabling me to do the basics like shopping and banking.

"Without my computer, I'd die of boredom long before I succumbed to MS"

As if the demands of a degree qualification were not enough, Laura also completed a City & Guilds course in computing last year in her spare time, which has equipped her with additional IT skills, should she require them later on. Now a dab hand with spreadsheets, databases and other technological wizardry, nothing phases her and she acquires new techniques alongside the university projects and assignments that require them: "I began my studies six years ago - just when my visual impairment was beginning to cause me problems - and I simply learnt to use the new equipment as I needed it. The best and quickest way to learn a new method is out of necessity," says Laura.

Corresponding with her tutor by email and communicating with her colleagues in chatrooms was a crucial part of the learning process: "Just like any other student, I needed to discuss topics with my course companions, have a good moan about our workload and compare notes - the Internet made all that possible."

Another of Laura's maxims is "MS might change your life, but don't let it change you and retail therapy is still compulsory." Don't let MS stop you from keeping up with fashion and enjoying wearing the same clothes as your friends. Buying the latest look on the Internet is hassle-free - there are no crowds and no sweaty changing rooms either!"

And after a busy trip round her favourite Internet sites checking out the bargains, Laura relaxes with a movie, watches TV, listens to the radio or plays a card game - all on her computer.

Laura is both optimistic and ambitious and is looking forward to new opportunities and possibilities.

"Whether I'm studying, shopping, enjoying my leisure time with a thriller or playing my latest passion, Kyodai, I can forget my disabilities and concentrate solely on my capabilities."

"Instead of staring out of the window watching the world go by without me, I can chat to my friends, buy a new dress and go to the cinema all in the same day... now that's what I call progress."

Making the right selection

Making the right selection from the array of equipment available to facilitate computer access can be confusing and that is where national charity, AbilityNet, can help.

AbilityNet provides free information and advice on any aspect of computer use by people with disabilities, including individual assessment of technology needs, adapted computer equipment with full training and technical support, a programme of awareness education, and consultancy for employers on system and workstation adaptations, as well as website accessibility. Every year AbilityNet works directly with thousands of people with a disability who wish to increase their autonomy through computer use.

For information on all aspects of successful computing, call AbilityNet's freephone advice line - 0800 269 545 or look at their website: www.abilitynet.org.uk.

There are a number of accessibility features built into Windows. Go to the next article to find tips on things you can do to your own computer to make it easier to use.

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