Hi, my name is Jack McGraw. I live in the Western Suburbs of Chicago. Living with cerebral palsy is quite challenging, but my disability does not define who I am! I have been using AAC devices ever since I was about 8 years old. Without my AAC technology, I probably would not be as successful in college as I am today because my fine motor skills are greatly impaired by my CP. I have been using eye gaze technology since I was about 13 years old which has made me into an extremely proficient AAC user.
I already earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology with minors in theology and Catholic Studies from Benedictine University in Illinois. Currently, I am taking classes to become a certified substance abuse counselor because I am passionate about helping people who feel powerlessness against their substance use. After earning my certificate, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy or clinical mental health counseling because I am also extremely interested in working in the mental health field.
I love working with young people, especially those who are “differently abled” like me. What I mean by “differently abled” is that we live life differently than those who do not have a disability, but we should not be looked down upon by society just because we are unable to do some things that the typical person can. Anyway, working with kids who are differently abled is something I am very good at because I have an idea of some of the challenges that they are experiencing and can truly validate their feelings in an empathetic way. It is immensely rewarding to help these kids cope with their unique challenges. This is part of the reason I want to become a therapist.
Above all, I know that I am called to be an advocate for the marginalized including those who are “differently abled” and who use AAC to communicate. So, this is why I am an AAC Ambassador!
