Testimonials
Jenny
Mother of Open Speller Stella (15 years old)
"For 13 years, my husband and I tried every therapy available to give our 13 year old daughter with autism the best life possible. One year ago, someone sent me a link to the Spellers movie. After watching it, I immediately started researching S2C, Spelling To Communicate. I was filled with hope that this would set Stella free. We asked our long time nanny Kara to enroll in the S2C training and began daily lessons with Stella. Six months later, Stella answered her first “open” question - what college would you like to go to? She spelled “Louisiana State University.” My husband has teased our three children for years that the only college he will pay for is LSU, his alma mater. Our minds were blown, especially when she could have simply typed LSU instead of the full name of the university. I hope parents of non-speaking children will take a chance and try S2C. It is now my purpose to help families learn about S2C and get to know their children. The miracle is real. "
Stella, what is something you wish more people knew about you? I AM SMART AND WORTHY OF COMMUNICATION!
(Picture is of Stella and her mom)
Tasha
Mother of Speller Chloe (18 years old)
"When Chloe was around five we were being told she was essentially non verbal. One day as a family we were hiking and I was discussing with her father how disconnected and varied her language abilities were each day. Chloe overheard this. She stopped dead in her track and pointed at a bird and loudly said, "Look at the Raven. It's a raven!" We were blown away. She wanted us to know it was all in there. From that moment on, we have always presumed competence and have searched for ways for her to express herself. Spelling programs have given us another method to peel back the layers and get an opportunity to know Chloe and "hear" her voice."
(Picture of Chloe)
Rae
26 year old open speller
Life before spelling felt so lonely, isolating, and I was misunderstood. People assumed I did not understand and spoke about me instead of addressing me. Not being able to speak up about what I knew felt so maddening. During my school years, it was a terrifying feeling having my voice not be heard. I was not provided with age appropriate content, therefore my education was very limited. I learned to read, write, do math, and other basic skills on my own. People may not know this about me unless I reacted in frustration.
When others presume competence, I feel seen as a contributing member of society. All non speakers are capable of learning, are intelligent, and have the capacity to live full lives.
My future looks so bright because I can communicate. My goals include, but are not limited to; pursuing an education in the field of psychology, advocacy, and one day marrying the love of my life.
After finding S2C, my entire world has changed. Now, I am able to share my thoughts, speak up, and advocate for all non-speakers whom are still trapped in silence.
(Picture is of Rae)
Stella
15 Year old Open Speller
What was life like before spelling?
IT WAS SO ISOLATING AND PEOPLE TREATED ME LIKE A TODDLER. I JUST WATNED TO BE FREE AND SHOW THE WORLD I AM IN HERE. I DIDN’T KNOW IF MY VOICE WOULD EVER BE HEARD.
What is life like after?
I AM ACCOMPLISHING SO MANY OF MY DREAMS. I AM FREE TO SHOW THE WORLD THE TRUE ME. PEOPLE TREAT ME LIKE MY AGE. I AM SO LUCKY TO HAVE PEOPLE WHO BELIEVE IN ME. I DREAMED OF THIS DAY.
(Picture of Stella)