by Sandy Masayko

Some highlights of 2019 from the AT Department at Easterseals SEPA–

HONORS

Director of AT, Joy McGowan, was recognized as a Healthcare Hero by Main Line Today in May. Joy, who has worked at Easterseals for more than 30 years, has helped hundreds of people attain communication skills and devices through her work evaluating, consulting, mentoring and guiding clients, families and therapists.

The AT Team gathered with Joy to celebrate her recognition as a Healthcare Hero.

SHARING KNOWLEDGE

The AT Team presented papers and posters about 3D printing for AT and eye gaze technology for young children at these conferences:

• Assistive Technology Industry Association, Orlando, FL, January 2019
• Pennsylvania Department of Education, Hershey, PA, March, 2019
• American Occupational Therapy Association, New Orleans, LA, April 2019
• Association of the Advancement of Assistive Technology in Europe, Bologna, Italy, August 2019
• AT Makers’ Fair, Monroeville, PA, September, 2019
• American Academy of Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine, Anaheim, CA, September, 2019

By sharing our knowledge we have been able to guide people in the USA and other countries in construction and implementation of AT to meet a wide range of needs, and we have gained information to help us with our clients.

This poster traveled to Anaheim for the American Academy of Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine conference.

COLLABORATION

Working with volunteers from Comcast and Thomas Jefferson University, the AT Department and volunteers fabricated over 50 adapted toys for children at our schools.

The School District of Philadelphia’s Science Leadership Academy students have continued to work with us to fabricate toys and devices for our students.

Thank you to our supporters at Comcast, Thomas Jefferson and SLA!

Comcast Cares Day participants adapted many toys for our students at Easterseals.

This Easterseals student received a custom-fitted seat for a kiddie car adapted by Jefferson University students, Comcast employees & Easterseals staff.

GRANTS

Building on our success with 3D printing of Assistive Technology, we have received a new grant from Comcast to fund implementation of Virtual Reality for educational purposes in our schools. Come back for more information about this in 2020.

NEW TEAM MEMBER

The AT Team welcomed Laura Slotkoff, M.S., OTR/L, as an Assistive Technology Specialist in September. Laura joined the AT Team after working for two years in OT at Easterseals. She brings knowledge of new technologies and commitment to expanding opportunities for participation for our students and clients.

The AT Team wishes a happy 2020 to our supporters and friends!