Thieves steal autistic boy’s speaking device
July 13th, 2010
The Autism News | English
By Jake Whittenberg | KING5
BELLINGHAM, Wash. – What appeared to be a normal car break-in for Sean Jones turned out to be much worse. Not because of the damage, but what was stolen.
“This is really devastating”, said Jones.
A device used by his autistic son Sheamus, 9, was stolen from his car on July 4th. Sheamus has severe Non-Verbal Autism. In recent
months his parents were able to afford a device called a “Mini-Merc”. It’s similar to an IPad. Sheamus carried it with him as a way to speak.
months his parents were able to afford a device called a “Mini-Merc”. It’s similar to an IPad. Sheamus carried it with him as a way to speak.
“He would touch a picture on the screen and it would speak for him,” said Sheamus’ mother, Frances Eustis. “It took a long time to get him comfortable using it, so the time lost not using it is huge. He really struggles expressing what he wants.”
Sean is offering a reward for the return of the device. It’s expensive and difficult to replace.
“I’m not looking to press charges or get anyone in trouble,” he said. “I just want the thing back for Sheamus.”
“Just drop it off somewhere, just call anonymously and leave it so that he can have it back,” said Eustis.
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This is just utterly sad!
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