Understanding what everyone tells her, knowing what she wants to say and fully aware of people not understanding her, she is constantly two steps ahead of trying to get whomever she is talking to understand what she is saying.

My daughter, Grace, deals with this on a constant daily basis. Yet does not seem to let this block phase her. She is truly an inspiring little girl! Grace just turned 5 on May 4th and was diagnosed a couple months ago with childhood apraxia of speech and is still a fun happy energetic bubbly little girl.

We have begun getting the wheels turning to get her an AAC device.  For those who are unaware of what this device is, it is an alternative communication device to allow her to talk to others.  So, from my understanding it’s basically a tablet with a speech app on it designed and personalized to her as a way and form of communication. It’s a tool in her toolbox that will help her succeed.

With the speech block, she is forced to think outside the box and constantly planning, “If I do option A, they are unlikely to understand, so if I choose option B or C it is much more probable.” My Grace has a long road ahead of her with intensive speech therapy 2-3 days a week, occupational therapy once a week, and 2 other specialty doctors following her. Yet, despite this, she attends PreK class three days a week, has a select group of friends she likes to play with, and is on a T ball team and loves it. Anyone who meets her or works with her tells me what a joy she is.

Grace is so very special.  Although apraxia of speech is a large part of her life, it does not define who she is.  She loves cats and dogs, takes horse riding lessons, enjoys swimming and swinging, and has the most contagious smile and giggle.  She is left-handed!  She is also a sweetheart at the Darrington Timberbowl rodeo.  What amazing accomplishments and we are so excited to see where life takes her!

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