“These days the technology can solve our problems and then some. Solutions may not only erase physical or mental deficits but leave patients better off than ‘able-bodied’ folks. The person who has a disability today may have superability tomorrow”.
Daniel H. Wilson
Today, December 3rd, the Turks and Caicos Islands celebrate with the rest of the World, “International Day of Persons with Disabilities” under the theme: “SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: THE PROMISE OF TECHNOLOGY”
Technology has surely changed our landscape, on a daily basis we unintentionally use aides such as braille when pressing the number keys during transactions at local ATM’s, and home keys when typing on computers. For many with disabilities technology has also allowed for mobility and communication.
Fifty years ago the occurrence of hip damage or injury to the knees meant reduced mobility, today this is not the case. Even on our little beautiful country technology has filtered its way into the healthcare system allowing for patients to have such procedures as orthopedic surgery; something previously unheard of decades ago, now being performed locally, which otherwise would have perhaps resulted in disabilities.
We have truly progressed as a society, with ramps and parking spaces bearing universal accessibility symbols in our banks, general stores and places of interest being a common sight. To those who paved the way, thank you for your vision.
As Minister of Health and Human Services, it is my goal to continue removing barriers that prevent persons with disabilities from participating in sustainable livelihood activities, inclusive of services and products.
We are truly overcoming obstacles through public – private sector partnership thus allowing the facilitation of empowerment by persons with disabilities in the workplace and educational institutions through technology. It is with pleasure that I highlight the donation by Seven Stars Resort Staff of ten (10) iPads to the SNAP Center in Providenciales; thus allowing for a practical approach to the role of technology in creating enabling working environments, especially through education. There are many good partners such as Kiwanis Club of Providenciales, the Road Runners Club and many others, playing their role in our respective communities.
Within this backdrop I encourage those with loved ones having disabilities to be registered on the National Register of Persons with Disabilities. This register has allowed better assistance in designing the necessary programs and services that are needed within the Turks and Caicos Islands. This baseline has established a more accurate benchmark for national identification. Additionally, we have seen the assessment of over 28 children in the islands, all of whom are registered. Previously individuals had to leave the comfort of their homes to have this done.
In the future I am sure that the Turks and Caicos Islands will see its share of bio robotics, transplants and basic devices all aiding in the betterment of lives for those in need. Let us all commit to making the Turks and Caicos Islands a country that is fully accessible to all with technology creating a level playing field.
Take time out to show love or perhaps surf the internet to see what affordable technological device can be used by a family member or friend thus allowing them to have a more comfortable life. May God continue to shine his mercies on us in these Beautiful by Nature, Turks and Caicos Islands.
