The initial trials of the LN-4 have been completed and we've learned a lot!  First and foremost we've learned that "one size does does NOT fit all"!  The LN Model 4 (LN-4), was designed to fit a child but was provided to adults during the trial period.  It soon became clear that a new, larger, adult model needed to be designed that would be more suitable for adult use.  Our designers have been hard at work on just such a hand and with the New Year will come the introduction of an adult-sized hand. 

In October, the students in Kelly Beaudry's 6th Grade Classroom at LaPine Middle School (LaPine, OR) were given a presentation on the LN-4 by DGE Tim Bewley (D5110) and AG Carol Fellows (D5110).  The students were greatly moved by the presentation and decided they wanted to do something to help.  This was significant considering that these kids have very little in the first place but they realized that there are others in the world who have even greater needs than they do!   Together with Josh Beaudry's 5th Grade class, they made a proposal to the Student Council that they have a "Hat Day" at the school to raise money to purchase hands.  The Student Council approved a "Hat Day" that was held in late October.  No hats are allowed at school, however, on Hat Day, students can wear a hat as long as they pay a fine of $.25  Some paid more because they wanted to do more but by the end of the day, the students had raised $218 . . . enough to purchase their first four hands.  They will be working with Tim and Carol to identify some recipients so they can communicate with them.  The school has adopted the project and will continue to hold fundraisers to purchase more hands.  What a great way for kids to help other kids!