A Lviv resident has developed an innovative application to support children with cerebral palsy

In times of war, children become the most vulnerable part of society, and their support becomes a priority for everyone. Special attention is needed for children who face not only the challenges of war, but also daily difficulties due to health conditions, in particular those living with a diagnosis of cerebral palsy. For such children, access to rehabilitation, education and basic communication is vital, because it allows them not to feel isolated and helpless.

In times of war, when many families have lost access to specialized centers, doctors and support, innovative solutions become a real lifesaver. Developments that help children with disabilities gain a voice and a way to communicate with the world are making an important contribution to securing their future, despite all the challenges that wartime imposes.

Ukrainian programmer from Lviv, Serhiy Rylskyi, has created a unique application that helps children with speech delay or complete lack of speech to communicate with their parents and the world. His story is an example of how a personal struggle can become a catalyst for change for many.

The idea of ​​creating this application was born from Sergey’s own experience. His five-year-old daughter Yarinka lives with a diagnosis of cerebral palsy. Despite her clear mind and desire to learn and communicate, she was unable to express her thoughts or needs due to speech limitations.

“She wants to be in the center of events, to communicate with her peers, to study, but our efforts to find a way to understand each other through classes with speech therapists, psychologists or neurologists did not give results.” — is shared Sergey

How the app works

The impetus for development was the idea of ​​alternative methods of communication, which Serhiy learned about from scientific articles. At first he and his wife used ordinary cards with pictures of actions, objects or words. For example, a child could choose the cards “I want” and “ball” to show that he wants to play with a ball.

However, this method had many limitations.

“It was awkward — more than 40 pictures that had to be arranged to make one sentence. It took a lot of time and effort.” Serhii explains.

To solve this problem, he created a digital version of the cards. In the application, all images are located in one program, and there is a voiceover for each action or word. This significantly accelerated the communication process, making it easier and more natural for the child.

What makes this app unique

Although there are similar programs in the world, they are mostly paid and expensive. Serhiy’s goal is to make his application available for free to all Ukrainian families who need it.

“I want parents who find themselves in a similar situation to be able to use this tool without financial obstacles.” he emphasizes.

Yarynka herself became the first user of the application. She quickly mastered the program and now actively uses it to express her wishes and needs.

Why is this important?

Experts confirm that such technologies not only make life easier for children with speech disorders, but also have a positive effect on their psychological state.

“Imagine what it’s like to live in a world where you’re not understood and suddenly have a tool that allows you to say what you want. It removes the feeling of isolation and gives true freedom.”, — says Olena Kovalyova, the founder of the children’s rehabilitation center.

Serhiy Rylsky does not stop there. His dream is to create a community that will bring together parents, children and professionals to support each other and develop inclusiveness in Ukraine.

“My application is not just a means of communication. It is an attempt to build a bridge between those who need help and those who can provide it. We must become a voice for those who don’t have one.” Serhiy concludes.

This story is not only about technology, but also about the power of human love that can change the world.