Owen's Story
From the rolling hills of Donegal, Ireland, emerges a tale of resilience, innovation, and the indomitable spirit of exploration. Meet Owen McGirr, a technology enthusiast whose journey is a captivating narrative of transcending physical boundaries and harnessing the power of adaptive technology.
Owen’s early affinity for technology was evident. Despite the challenges posed by being in a wheelchair, his enthusiasm for exploring the digital domain was unfazed. His journey began with conventional AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) tools like AlphaTalker and DynaVox, but as technology evolved, so did Owen’s arsenal.
During his college years, Owen’s drive for innovation led to the creation of SayIt!, a simple yet powerful app aimed at making digital communication more accessible. But he didn’t stop there. Owen's venture into the realms of 3D printing to create practical solutions like a drink holder for his wheelchair exemplifies his knack for practical innovation.
A significant milestone in Owen’s journey was the development of augy, a cutting-edge AAC app. augy transcends traditional communication barriers, offering a platform that’s intuitive, user-friendly, and empowering.
Owen’s setup is a blend of intuitive control and seamless access. Through Grid 3 on Windows, he orchestrates a setup that connects him to his cherished macOS environment via TeamViewer. It’s a harmonious integration, reflecting Owen’s ability to tailor technology to meet his needs.
A remarkable endeavor was the creation of a personal voice with a comforting Donegal accent, adding a touch of home to his digital interactions. Through the iOS 17 feature of Personal Voice, Owen crafted a voice based on a close friend’s speech, bringing a sense of familiarity and warmth to his digital persona.
But Owen’s story transcends the individual. It’s a narrative that speaks to the boundless possibilities awaiting those willing to explore, adapt, and innovate. His story is a testament to the power of a curious mind and the incredible potential of technology to enhance personal autonomy and interaction with the digital world.
Today, Owen continues to explore, innovate, and share his insights, contributing to the broader dialogue on adaptive technology. His story is an inspiration, a compelling narrative that invites us all to explore the boundless opportunities that lie in the intersection of curiosity, technology, and the human spirit.
Join Owen as he navigates the evolving landscape of adaptive technology, sharing his discoveries, insights, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. Through Owen's story, we are all invited to envision a world where technology serves as a bridge to endless exploration, understanding, and enriched human interaction.
