Using My Device to Virtually Connect During COVID-19

By Brandon Bubba Patrick Williamson, PRC-Saltillo Blogger

Hi, my name is Brandon Williamson.  I use an integrated Accent 1000.  When the world shut down from COVID-19, I had to start doing my therapies online.  I use Zoom for all of my virtual sessions.  Instead of using a separate computer, I downloaded Zoom on my Accent 1000 just like you would do on a laptop.  To get to my vocabulary, I open it up from NuVoice.  I use NuVoice with Words for Life to communicate while on Zoom.  I like to share my screen on Zoom to show what I am doing on my device and when I am typing a message to other people.  This helps them easily see my screen on the computer.  My speech therapist likes to see my screen during therapy.

I can open Zoom meetings to meet a therapist using the meeting URL and login information.  I like to talk with them just like we do during in-person therapies.  I add my therapy meetings and other appointments into my Google Calendar on my device.  I also set reminders for my appointments so I don't forget them.  I love having everything on my device.

During the week, I attend a program called All R Friends.  It's a program for adults with special needs.  We used to meet in person.  When COVID-19 started, I was able to use Zoom on my device to continue attending my program virtually.  I like to play games with them and I like to hang out and talk to people in the program online.  I can do this all on my device.  The other day I saw everyone in person. I was excited to be out of my home all day. 

I also use Zoom on my device to make video calls with family and friends.  This helps me stay connected with others during COVID-19 shutdowns and social distancing.  When I share my screen, they can see when I am typing a message to ask and answer questions during a conversation.  I like when they can see me typing.  They give me time to finish my message.

In the future, I need a job.  I don't know what I will do yet.  Using technology gives me a good job skill.  I also like doing new things, like using Zoom.  I am happy that I have been able to see other people using my device during the COVID-19 pandemic.