Some blame the technological boom and the Internet for much of society’s decline. Luddites say things like, “In my day, we went outside to play, not wasting time online,” or “We would go to the library and get books, not just look everything up on Google.”

On the other hand, I am incredibly thankful for living in a technologically advanced era. A majority of my life is dependent on technology: My power wheelchair (for mobility), Bi-PAP non-invasive ventilation (to rest my breathing muscles as I sleep), and my computer, allowing me to work.

As my abilities to write and draw decrease, I rely on my computer and smartphone more and more. Even typing this blog entry would take waaay more time than necessary if I weren’t able to type quickly on my phone. Of course, there are other alternatives for typing, like on-screen keyboard that can be quite tedious to click each letter, of every word, even with word prediction. There are also dictation programs that I hear great things about… But I’d rather avoid having to say everything I write out loud unless necessary. My co-workers probably appreciate that too 😉

Various software programs allow me to still create, even if my hands don’t. Using the Adobe Illustrator’s pen tool produces better results than my hand ever could anyways 🙂

Even if my disability weren’t a factor, I enjoy the camaraderie the online community provides to those of us who aren’t especially extroverted. It’s much more assuring to know that you can voice your opinion without someone else interrupting or talking over you.

I have met so many great people online as well. I belong to several online forums specifically for people with neuromuscular diseases. Within these communities, individuals can share unique experiences and discuss solutions to topics that improve the health and well being of one another. The friendships and support that flourishes within these groups are invaluable.

I could go on and on, explaining the benefits of technology and the internet in my life, especially considering it’s contribution to meeting the love of my life, keeping in contact with friends and family, and the endless learning opportunities available… To me, the internet (and thus, computers… Though they have been around for quite awhile) is the best thing to happen to those with physical disabilities since the power wheelchair.