In 2000, Katherine discovered she had a brain tumour. Although it was removed, as a result, she now has epilepsy, memory deficits, and slower executive functioning. She was referred to Neil Squire by the Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association (new window) to brush up on her computer skills as she works her way back to employment.
“I had little to no computer experience other than what I had learned in college, most of which was completely expired,” she says.
After initially taking part in our Distance Computer Comfort program to learn the basics, Katherine wanted to continue honing her computer skills in our Digital Jumpstart program.
Working with Distance Training Coordinator Gordon Watt from the comfort of her home in Langley, BC, Katherine learned a variety of programs, including Microsoft Office
“It’s been fantastic, it’s been an absolute gift,” she says. “Working with Gordon was easy, he was easy to understand, he took his time with me, he was able to give me breaks when I needed them, which a person living with a brain injury often does.”
Katherine says the Digital Jumpstart program has “tremendously” impacted her daily life.
“Even something as small as learning how to use the Google Calendar, I’ve gone completely paperless,” she explains. “It’s basically a lifesaver, I was able to learn another program for my medications, because of course it’s quite crucial I take medications on time.”
Through Digital Jumpstart, Katherine received a laptop, keyboard, mouse, and laptop raiser, which allows her to adjust her laptop to a comfortable height for use.
With the lessons having been recorded, Katherine can go back to them and practice the skills she’s learned.
Katherine wants to get back into the workforce, and has learned the computer skills she needs. She is looking forward to joining our employment program.
She says she would “absolutely, without hesitation” recommend people with disabilities join the Digital Jumpstart program.
“Just the hope of moving forward, I think Neil Squire was able to provide me with that,” Katherine says. “I have more hope than I did before.
“I’m absolutely thrilled with the program and couldn’t be happier moving forward.”
This project is funded by the Government of Canada’s
Skills for Success Program