birgit krumschmidt
Two living eyes greet us as we step into the home of Birgit Krumschmidt in Padborg, Denmark. During the last few years, she has been living with ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) and as a result of the disease lost the use of her limbs and voice.
On the door of Birgit's living room, is a note encouraging those who enter to first greet and then to step behind her MyTobii screen. The reason for this is that Birgit is often in the middle of a private conversation via eye control communication.
The technological aid has given Birgit her 'voice' back and with it, new dignity as a human being. Now she can once again express her thoughts and wishes, handle several tasks herself through the internet and e-mail, and not least, communicate in detail with everyone from doctors and helpers to family and friends.
"Earlier when I went to talk with the ALS-team at the hospital, it did not always take place according to my terms. I would be left sitting there with unanswered questions. This caused many frustrations. Today, I have my MyTobii with me and am able to present extensive questions that I have prepared in advance," says Birgit, who has been able to communicate through eye control technology since June 2006.
Regaining a small part of life
"What has surprised me the most about getting MyTobii is that I can write e-mails. Also that I can have a meaningful conversation with my husband, without any misunderstandings or through other people," says Birgit.
During everyday life, she herself is in contact with her doctors, renews prescriptions, reads local news papers online, writes e-mails to family and friends, and talks with her helpers via her MyTobii.
"It is important to me that people respect me for the person I am. I have regained a small part of my life with MyTobii, and I have gained access to several new possibilities that I am trying to take advantage of. It is impossible to describe how it feels to once again be able to talk with my husband and 20-year-old son - it is a huge improvement of my quality of life."
In a small country such as Denmark, it is estimated that around 500 individuals live with ALS today, and that every year around 150 individuals are diagnosed with the disease. According to Birgit Krumschmidt, living with ALS develops ones patience; but with her eyes and MyTobii she has regained a little of her personal voice:
- Now I do not have to settle with saying just yes and no.