Real Stories

Reconnecting Through Mobility

James is a Veteran and getting around town was increasingly difficult for him. Traveling to medical appointments, grocery shopping, or even visiting the park was exhausting.

James’s caseworker contacted the Michigan Assistive Technology Program (MATP) to see if he could try an adaptive bike. MATP arranged a demonstration of an E-Trike, since James no longer felt safe riding a traditional two-wheeled bicycle.

From the moment he tried it, everything changed.

In just a few hours, James rode to the grocery store and explored town. The experience gave him more than transportation, it gave him freedom.

Now, with his E-Trike, James is excited to volunteer at the local animal shelter, travel to appointments independently, and reconnect with his community on his own terms.

Small Adaptations, Big Independence

The Michigan Assistive Technology Program (MATP) connected with Natalie, a young girl with a limb difference, through her occupational therapist to help her build independence with everyday activities.

One of Natalie’s goals was learning to feed herself. MATP provided demonstrations and short-term loans of adapted silverware so she could explore different options and practice using tools designed for her needs.

Guided Hands, an assistive device that helps stabilize and guide hand movements, is what worked best for Natalie. Working together, MATP and her therpist tested several grip adaptations to find the best fit. A silicone grip added to the joystick handle gave Natalie the support she needed to succeed.

The results were immediate and exciting. Natalie, her mom, and her OT were thrilled to see how the right assistive technology could open new opportunities for creativity, participation, and confidence.

A Better Way to Brush

For Logan, brushing his teeth had always been difficult. After researching possible solutions, the Michigan Assistive Technology Program (MATP) helped Logan explore toothbrush options designed to make oral care more accessible. MATP demonstrated the Autobrush and provided a toothbrush head that fit his needs best.

From the very beginning, Logan loved it.

The Autobrush reduced the fine motor and muscular demands of brushing while also improving how effectively he could clean his teeth. At his next dental appointment, Logan’s dentist noticed a major improvement in his oral hygiene and asked what had changed.

Logan now proudly shows off his new toothbrush to guests and enthusiastically tells friends and family how much he loves it.

Creativity Without Interruption

When Tyrone’s iPad suddenly broke, he worried he would have to stop creating the digital artwork he loves.

The Michigan Assistive Technology Program (MATP) stepped in quickly, providing a loaned iPad Pro and Apple Pencil so he could continue drawing.

Soon after receiving the equipment, Tyrone shared his latest digital portraits of Michael Jackson, all created using the loaned technology.

For Tyrone, assistive technology meant preserving his ability to express himself and pursue his passion.

A resident of a nursing home with a mobility disability had been waiting months for approval of a power wheelchair that would allow them to move safely and independently.

Disability Rights Michigan (DRM) assisted with navigating the process and communicating with the Durable Medical Equipment (DME) supplier and the nursing home, and the power wheelchair order was approved and processed.

A Companion She Could Finally Enjoy

Laura loves dogs, but after learning she had a dog allergy, owning one no longer seemed possible. She had seen an advertisement for a robotic companion dog and was immediately interested, but the cost was out of reach for the family.

The Michigan Assistive Technology Program (MATP) arranged for Laura to receive a robotic dog and instantly fell in love with it. She was so excited that she even spent her own allowance money to buy the dog a collar before family photos.

For Laura, assistive technology didn’t just provide access, it brought comfort and happiness.

An employee with hearing loss was having difficulty performing essential job functions that required frequent phone communication. Disability Rights Michigan (DRM) helped her request a captioned telephone as reasonable accommodation, which was supported by a letter from her doctor.

DRM continued to support her through the interactive process until the caption phone was provided. She is now able to communicate effectively and perform the essential functions of her job. See: https://adata.org/factsheet/reasonable-accommodations-workplace

A person who uses a power mobility device contacted Disability Rights Michigan (DRM) after attempting to visit a county office and discovering that the accessible entrance door was out of service, making it impossible for her to access the building independently.

DRM contacted the county office, which worked with the building owner to have the door repaired. The repair restored access for the client and others who rely on the accessible entrance.