Hello, my name is Susan. I am a proud grandmom of a 6-year-old grandson. Connor was diagnosed with Bilateral Optic Nerve Hypoplasia around 5 months old. He has no central vision but does have some vision in the bottom of his eyes, which is why you'll see him looking up a lot. Connor attended Maryland School for the Blind for 3 years; his teachers recommended he transition into a regular school. Connor has an aide that assists him throughout the day. He is taken from class to learn reading and writing in Braille. I have a hard time understanding Braille. Connor will sit at the table and practice, and when he gets stuck, he will ask me what letter something is, and I can't answer this for him. The Perkins Smart Brailler will help him learn at home, and he will be able to print out his paperwork for the teachers. I was telling Connor about this reader and mentioned it was $2000.00. As time passed, we were talking, and I asked Connor what he wanted for Christmas. He said he only wanted 2 things: his train (he loves trains) and $2000.00. When I asked him why he wanted $2000, he said, "To give to you." I said, "To me, for what?" He said, "So you can get me the Braille reader." That touched my heart.

Here is some information on the item: Perkins Smart Brailler. The SMART Brailler opens the door to a new, more intuitive way for individuals, both sighted and blind, to communicate, teach, and learn Braille together. Now teachers in a mainstream classroom can see what their students are brailling. Sighted parents can help their visually impaired children with homework. And students can take the lead in their own Braille education. Sighted or blind, we can all share the learning experience! Teacher, parent, and child-tested technology lets you connect using a digital screen and audio output. Now everyone can share the learning experience. HEAR THE WORDS. SEE THE LETTERS. CONNECT THE DOTS. Features:

* A video screen that displays SimBraille and large print, combined with audio feedback, for an instantaneous, multi-sensory learning experience.

* The ability to edit, save, and transfer electronic documents via USB.

* Built-in software with lessons for Braille beginners (American Printing House version only; available separately for a fee).

* Headphone jack and volume control.

* Acapela Text to Speech from Acapela Group.

* Mechanical brailler capability.

* Multiple language platforms including English, Spanish, French, German, Russian, and Portuguese.

* Rechargeable and removable battery.

I want Connor to excel in his education and feel this would be a great help.