Meet Majd
Majd is a 35-year-old computer science student who enjoys exploring the digital world with AAC. Prior to his spinal cord stroke, he was a professional swimmer and a lifeguard. Using Grid 3 and eye gaze, Majd enjoys features like Computer Control, Environment Control and Accessible Apps. Read more as Majd shares details of his rare injury and life below, including how he uses Grid to establish friendships online, regain his independence and continue his studies. I studied pre-engineering in plastics and completed my degree in mid-2008, post-graduation I began working as a technician in a plastic factory. On December 11th, under circumstances I could never have predicted, I suffered a spinal cord stroke. It’s an extremely rare condition; I’ve never met anyone with the same injury in the same section of the spinal cord, which is the second one, known as C2. On the day of the incident, I was at home, feeling perfectly fine when suddenly I experienced severe neck pain – next I was rushed to the village medical centre by my brother. As I was explaining my symptoms to the doctor, I found myself unable to breathe and I lost consciousness. I awoke in the hospital, surrounded by numerous machines, including a breathing apparatus. After extensive testing, doctors determined I had suffered a stroke in the C2 section of my spinal cord. They said there was little they could do. It’s truly a miracle I’m alive today. Had I not been taken to the medical centre, I might have stopped breathing at home, with fatal consequences. It’s been 15 years since the incident. My health condition has remained stable, but sadly, there has been no improvement. Now, I am paralysed, reliant on a breathing tube, and my speech is limited, with low volume. I’m currently at home, where my family, especially my mother, is taking dedicated care of me. Five years ago, my days were monotonous. I would wake up, perhaps take a bath, and spend the day either watching TV or sleeping. However, everything changed when I got this computer. Even though my interaction was limited to behind the screen, it reignited my connection with the outside world. I reconnected with my friends through platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. I began to immerse myself in reading and self-study. Two years ago, I was accepted into an open university, which provided a comprehensive program tailored to my needs. All my classes were conducted via Zoom, allowing me to attend lectures and take exams from home. I chose to study computer science, and now, I’ve successfully completed two years. In just one more year, I’ll have my Bachelor’s degree. Accomplishing all of this would have been unthinkable without the Grid software. It allowed me to navigate and control my computer using just my eyes. This technology has truly been a game-changer, giving me back my life and purpose. My transformative journey with Grid 3 software began about five years ago. A combination of eye gaze and Grid has been an integral part of my life for the past 5 years. Grid 3’s most remarkable feature is its unmatched flexibility and customisation capabilities. The software isn’t just adaptable; it’s malleable to the individual. We have the freedom to shape the software to meet our distinct needs, making every interaction feel personal and intuitive. While Grid 3 was designed with people with disabilities in mind, offering a platform that spans communication, environmental control, and computer access, it’s the software’s ability to be tailored that truly sets it apart. It transitions from being a mere tool to an extension of oneself, bridging the gap between individuals and the digital realm. Today, my routine revolves around Grid. I woke up at 6am, completed my morning routine by 7am, and then immersed myself in my PC, equipped with Grid. Whether I was working, studying, or simply exploring the digital world, Grid was there, facilitating each action. Choosing Grid wasn’t my initial decision, but now, I can’t envision a day without it. For people like me, Grid isn’t just software—it’s life-changing. The profound impact it has on daily activities, the newfound independence, and the redefined boundaries make it invaluable. Every feature, especially its customisation, reflects its transformative power for people with unique challenges. Do you have a story to share? We are collecting stories of people who use Grid to show how assistive technology helps people communicate and live more independent lives. If you would like to share your story, please contact us below get in touch by emailing marketing@thinksmartbox.comHow Majd found his voice again
Majd’s injury
Getting Grid
“Using Grid was like a window back into the world.”
Majd’s life now
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