Video Speaker 30th October - Stuart Ottley for the Mark Urwin Fund

On Friday 30th October 2020 Club welcomed Stuart Ottley to bring Members up to date  on Mark Urwin’s progress. Mark has cerebral palsy and is a resident of Birchwood, a Salutem Care Home in Chesham. Stuart has known Mark since he was born, has supported the establishment of the Mark Urwin Fund and continues to be amazed at his achievements. 

In 2018 Chesham Rotary contributed to the Mark Urwin Fund which had been established to seek funds to provide for technology for Mark, and particularly Eyegaze software and hardware. After much research, the equipment was installed in 2017.  Stuart presented a video of Mark’s use of the technology which translates the gazing of the eye at a letter on a keyboard into narrative much like a text messaging facility. A laborious process but one which enables the user to communicate when speech is not possible.

Mark is determined to be as independent of his carers, family, and friends as possible. Eyegaze has been life changing. He is now able to converse (comparatively) quickly, he now has a voice albeit syntesised, he is able to write full length emails and since having a smart TV installed, can now access TV channels and YouTube, - all of which he can select and control with Eyegaze. Similarly, Eyegaze enables Mark to control room temperature and with some further installations, will enable him to operate curtains and lighting.

With the restrictions imposed by lockdown Mark has been using Zoom and was able to join the Rotary Meeting.

Mark is a member of The Birchwood Painters who are a group of disabled residents who live in the Salutem Care home. They have been art making for 12 years.  A video of Mark’s work was shown – in the making and the resultant vibrant paintings - reflecting his love of life, colour, and his faith. His paintings have been exhibited in various Art Exhibitions and in the London Underground Network.  Members were amazed at his style and skill in transforming his thoughts onto canvas and the imagery left a lasting impression.