 David was diagnosed with developmental dysphasia early in his life. Dysphasia is associated to damage within the brain that typically affects communication. Consequently, the person with this condition shows inability to communicate clearly or speak in a fluent manner. This inability could affect both the communication coming in or going out of the brain. So, for this reason, speech, as we know it, is not the norm for David. We have learned that David hears words in a manner that would equate to a radio station being out of frequency. For this reason we communicate with him in short sentences. This approach assures that he will be able to understand most of the message we are trying to convey. We must also maintain direct eye contact when speaking to David in order to make it easier for him to have the ability to understand the message.
However, this is certainly not the norm on how people communicate in society therefore; the implications of having this type of disability are significant.
We recently learned of InRETURN, an organization that provides opportunities to expand the lives of brain-injury survivors. David recently had the opportunity of joining this organization as a production associate. Not only can he now experience the employment program but he can also experience a customized Education and Life Skill program that brings all aspects of life together. Perhaps more important is the fact that all this comes together in a structured and positive environment which is much critical for people with brain-injury disabilities. So far the benefits are beginning to surface, David is turning into a more confident and happy individual. The potential for learning and developing existing and new skills never looked better. The work and learning environment require for people with brain-injury disabilities are at their best in InRETURN.
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