Anna Boyer, supervisor of rehabilitation services at Children’s Woodbury rehab clinic, embodies Children’s values every day, but was especially remarkable when helping a patient who was recovering from Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) find her voice again. AFM is a neurological condition affecting the spinal cord which can lead to numerous medical complications, including muscle weakness or nerve damage. While this patient’s cognitive abilities were not affected, she was unable to move most of the muscles in her body, including her eyes. This made it virtually impossible for her to communicate, which was devastating to her and her family as her thoughts were essentially trapped inside her body.
Unique means of communication
Anna worked tirelessly to find a communication system that would improve the patient’s quality of life. She took it upon herself to research what tactics have worked for other patients with similar conditions around the world. She was even able to connect with a researcher who helped her obtain a device, which can detect subtle eye movements. When the device senses eye movements, it activates a switch connected to an iPad, allowing the patient to interact and communicate with those around her.
We are so thankful for Boyer’s creativity, which helped our patient find her voice again.
Help patients find their voices
Speech pathologists are responsible for the evaluation and provision of speech therapy services to children with a range of diagnoses from cleft palate to voice disorders. Additionally, our speech-language pathology department also evaluates and treats kids who have difficulties with speech, cognitive-linguistic skills, feeding and swallowing, and language.
Become part of something amazing
At Children’s Minnesota, we’re always looking for passionate individuals to join our team. Search our current openings and start your Children’s career today.
