TECH FOR GOOD
The book is a first-person narrative that mirrors many of the conversations between people with MND and their loved ones .
89 having to communicate through a device , the output is still related to them .”
“ THESE ARE MY THOUGHTS ” Although “ I Will Always Be Me ” is written as a first-person narrative , the story fosters dialogue between reader and listener . Twiss explores conversations that many families have likely had in the wake of an MND diagnosis : “ Sometimes our bodies feel very different very quickly , and sometimes it can feel like nothing has changed at all .”
The reader addresses fear calmly , ensuring their audience that , although their bodies are changing , there are many things MND cannot take away from them — their point of view and opinions , likes and dislikes , and everything else that contributes to their unique personality . Alongside the heavy subject matter , Twiss manages to include lighthearted moments that pay homage to the playfulness of traditional children ’ s books : “ Everything is changing , except for how much I hate wet socks .”
Throughout development , the MND Association made sure that people living with MND were involved , from initial research sessions to refining the user experience . Although this level of involvement stretched deadlines , Cave says , “ We were able to build confidence that the decisions made through the project reflected the views , strengths and needs of people living with MND in a sensitive way .”
Importantly , participants were able to consult with Twiss during the writing process , ensuring that the final version accurately portrayed the reality of living with MND . Upon reading the finished book , many were moved to tears .