It’s that time again. Soldier’s Angels has kicked off the annual fundraiser for Valor IT. For those that have been reading this blog for awhile you know that this is one of the few programs that I actively support, and contribute to.
Being a tech geek, as well as a Marine this is a charity that is right in my wheel house. Rarely do you find such a well suited use of technology. All too often we are trying to force a technical solution into a slot where it might / sort of fit, and offer some benefits to the user. In this case there is no doubt that this is the right solution, at the right time, for the right audience. But, all those laptops and all that software does not come for free.
Project Valour-IT, in memory of SFC William V. Ziegenfuss, helps provide voice-controlled/adaptive laptop computers and other technology to support Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines recovering from hand wounds and other severe injuries. Technology supplied includes:
Voice-controlled Laptops – Operated by speaking into a microphone or using other adaptive technologies, they allow the wounded to maintain connections with the rest of the world during recovery. Wii Video Game Systems – Whole-body game systems increase motivation and speed recovery when used under the guidance of physical therapists in therapy sessions (donated only to medical facilities). Personal GPS – Handheld GPS devices build self-confidence and independence by compensating for short-term memory loss and organizational challenges related to severe TBI and severe PTSD.
The experience of Major Chuck Ziegenfuss, a partner in the project who suffered serious hand wounds while serving in Iraq, illustrates how important these laptops and other technologies can be to a wounded service member’s recovery.
Dig, a bit. Find what you can and drop it in the thermometer below, or over to the sidebar there. We have until Veteran’s Day to raise a couple bucks.
