Morse Code Helps Man Live With Physical Disability
In 1979, eleven year old Steve Harper, unable to speak due to the physical disability, cerebral palsy, had never heard of Morse code and was struggling to communicate with a head stick, symbol board and typewriter. Using these methods made communication arduous since someone had to be right there with Steve when he tried to get his messages understood. He slowly signaled by pointing to various symbols and letters. First he had to gain the undivided attention of an adult and then feebly attempt to have them understand his erratic gestures. Even using the typewriter was awkward and painful. People often ignored what he wrote making him constantly discouraged. His frustration with being unable to enjoy normal activities for children of his age was aggravated by his inability to interact with others effectively. He felt very little independence as speech eluded him, so that he had trouble getting anyone