Leia, who had only been able to communicate with sign language until this point, now began to learn how to speak. At age seven, Leia still remains on a Bipap ventilator 24 hours a day, but does enjoy an occasional movie night out. She can speak and is learning to add tonal quality to her speech. She uses a harmonica to learn how to breathe through her nose. Her grandmother, Kris, home schools Leia and reports that she is an avid computer enthusiast.
Every day is a miracle.
The powered shaver blade from Medtronic Xomed has given Leia the ability to smell and taste. It has given her voice and character. Her quality of life has far superceded our expectations . . . and many others. Without the shaver, she wouldn't be this far. I know that for a fact.