“I know independence is very, very important. It’s a lot more effective for Dynasty to say what she needs to say without needing me to speak for her.” – LaTonya Holland, wife
Navigating a Life Filled with Communication Barriers
For 32-year-old Dynasty Holland, communication has always been a challenge. Diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at a young age, she’s navigated life as an intermittent communicator while also managing complex medical conditions, including difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), grand mal seizures, severe bilateral hearing loss, osteogenesis imperfecta, and chronic pain. Despite these challenges, Dynasty has built a fulfilling career as a high school science teacher in a 12th-grade classroom — a role where communication is crucial.
Using AAC as a High-School Science Teacher (and Beyond!)
Before receiving her Lingraphica AAC device, communication was often frustrating and time-consuming. Dynasty’s wife, LaTonya, shared, “Verbal communication was limited or nonexistent. Medical visits were especially difficult — without a reliable way to express her needs, she often had to rely on me to speak for her.”
With her device, Dynasty can:
- Give detailed instruction during lessons
- Engage in discussions with students and colleagues
- Customize her vocabulary for science-specific communication
- Plan lessons with fellow teachers more efficiently
Her success highlights how AAC can empower neurodivergent and intermittent-speaking professionals in their workplaces, providing new ways to communicate and collaborate with confidence.
Now, with her device, Dynasty has more independence than ever — both in daily life and at work.
“As a teacher, communication is the biggest key to helping my students graduate,” Dynasty says. “My AAC device helps me every day. It gives me the ability to multitask—from teaching my students to collaborating with my team on lesson plans. It gives me freedom and ease in accessing and maneuvering different aspects of communication.”
A Future Without Communication Limits
Since receiving her Lingraphica device, Dynasty has found a new sense of confidence. “I have a lot more freedom!” she says. She looks forward to celebrating her first birthday with her device, knowing she’ll have the power to express herself fully.
When asked what she would tell others considering an AAC device, her message is simple: “I would have them use you!”
Her wife, LaTonya, adds, “This AAC device has and continues to give Dynasty the type of freedom, independence, and confidence that is…PRICELESS!!!”
Whether she’s in the classroom, at a doctor’s appointment, or spending time with family, her Lingraphica device gives her the voice to enjoy every moment. Dynasty’s journey is proof that AAC isn’t just about expanding communication — it’s for enhancing full-life participation.
Debunking AAC Myths
AAC doesn’t have to be a last resort solution. There is no minimum time to wait post-onset to introduce AAC. Read more about some common myths and the realities when it comes to using AAC.
Lingraphica Can Help
We help adults with speech and language impairments to reconnect with family and friends, improve communication, and live their best lives. Call us at 866-570-8775 or visit the link below to get started.
