We're excited to announce that we're now offering all of our Project Mariposa grantees the option of selecting either an iPad 2 OR an iPad Mini — 100% their choice of what fits their specific physical needs the best!
The condition known as spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) includes several official, yet general, types (type I, type II, type III, and type IV). Typically, those with SMA are grouped into these types based on the results of a simple genetic test and the highest level of motor function or ability of the diagnosed. In our experience, some of the typing can be somewhat subjective. The reality is that the types are very different and, while the prognosis is the same, even within the types there are wide disparities between progression of the disease and corresponding abilities. So, it didn't surprise us that one incredible iPad type, the iPad 2, didn't perfectly fit the specific needs of all of those with SMA — some preferred the smaller screen to navigate more easily while others find the larger screen essential. Well, leave it to Apple and enter their iPad Mini. As Apple says the iPad Mini is “every inch an iPad.” At 7.8″ x 5.3″ the iPad Mini is nearly 2 inches shorter and 2 inches skinnier than the iPad 2. Yet, it has all of the capabilities and functionality that make the iPad 2 such an incredible tool for those with special needs, specifically SMA.
The iPad, including the iPad Mini, are simply incredible devices for those with SMA. These tools, coupled with the growing application library that accompanies them, are literally life-changing in assisting with communication, education, and independence. The iPad is opening up new avenues that were previously impossible. It's large screen size, light weight, portability, and featherlight touch screen make access to education, entertainment, and independence possible and in some cases it is allowing people to communicate for the first time in their lives. We're extremely proud of our Project Mariposa iPad grant program and the impact that each iPad grant is making on each grantee. And we're excited that by offering each grantee a choice between either the iPad 2 or iPad Mini the impact of each one will be even more effective.
Click HERE to read the spec comparison of the different Apple iPad models.
Click HERE to read more about our Project Mariposa iPad grant program!