Success Stories
Helping people reach their goals!
Marvin
Marvin is passionate about everything related to computers and technology. His creative mind has the uncanny ability to diagnose a computer glitch and within minutes he can find a solution. In 2001, Marvin survived a C2 spinal cord injury leaving him paralyzed and facing a new world of life-sustaining technology. After quickly adapting to the ventilator machine necessary to help him breathe, he focused his curiosity on other Assistive Technology that could support his independence and activities of daily living. This was when he was introduced to Easterseals Massachusetts Assistive Technology (AT) by the MassAbility Assistive Technology Independent Living Program.
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Lisa
From an early age, Lisa faced challenges that many have never had to think about. Born with a rare congenital condition called Bilateral Complete Terminal Ulnar Hemimelia, she grew up without elbows, unable to bend her arms, and with only three fingers on each hand. Everyday tasks like feeding herself, using a phone, and managing hygiene were difficult and painful. Growing up, Lisa relied mostly on her mother to navigate daily life and then her husband Scott’s support once married. In August 2023, Lisa took a significant step toward reclaiming her independence by joining the MassAbility Assistive Technology (AT) Independent Living Program at Easterseals.
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Holly
Like most college students, Holly juggles a busy schedule. Besides attending Greenfield Community College (GCC), she lives independently, maintains a job, and is an artist. When she first started attending GCC, Holly knew she needed assistance to succeed and was unsure how to find it. Having been diagnosed with autism, a learning disability that affects her reading, and anxiety, she received special education accommodations and services that ended when she graduated from high school. Although those services do not continue in postsecondary education, she started with the GCC Disabilities Services Office. In addition to providing support like coordinating accommodations across campus and encouraging Holly to participate in college activities, they also connected her to the Easterseals Massachusetts College Navigator Program.
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Brittany
For many years, 31-year-old Brittany expressed interest in horseback riding lessons. While searching for equestrian programs, Brittany and her mother Paula quickly discovered limited options for adults with disabilities. Brittany, who is on the autism spectrum and has diagnoses of anxiety, depression, and type 2 diabetes, was told time and again that she was either too old to ride or could only pet the horses. The duo was determined to find a welcoming place and was cautiously optimistic when Brittany’s therapist recommended the Equine Assisted Services at The Bridge Center.
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Brian
When Brian, a young man with autism, graduated from high school in 2022, he was enthusiastic about getting a part-time job. He was unsure where to start because he did not have a driver’s license and relied upon walking for transportation, which made his employment search challenging. Fortunately, in June 2023, he was referred to Easterseals Massachusetts’ Job Development & Placement Services by MassAbility, formerly known as the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission.
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Bill Taube
Bill Taube’s determination to pursue his goals led him to Easterseals Massachusetts’ Assistive Technology program. Having to continually adapt his routine after his diagnosis of macular degeneration in 2015, he increasingly found it difficult to maintain the level of independence he wanted. His vision loss became a barrier to driving, reading, and using household appliances.
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Nicole
Diagnosed with Central Nervous System Lupus and other disabilities, Nicole started losing her vision a few years ago, significantly impacting her day-to-day life and making her goal of earning a college degree more and more challenging. Read more about how Nicole achieved her goals with the Assistive Technology (AT) program.
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Caterina
Self-described “animal lover” Caterina, a 2023 Holyoke Community College graduate, said she needed much more than a passion for helping animals to achieve her education goals and earn her Veterinary Assistant Certificate. Read more about how the College Navigator Program set Caterina on a path to success.
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Chris
Assistive Technology (AT) was the solution to support Chris’ desire to work again and lead a more independent life. Chris’ journey is a testament to the power of technology in improving people’s lives and is a reminder that disabilities do not define a person’s capabilities. With the right accommodation and support, individuals can unlock their full potential and thrive in the workforce and other areas of life.
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Allison
Overcoming many barriers, Allison Thompkins is a true example of what perseverance and determination look like. Living with cerebral palsy since birth, she has defied expectations, achieved academic success, and became a leading advocate for accessibility and inclusion. Read more about Allison’s journey.
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