There is a room, and in this spot there are no barriers, no walls, no curbs and no judgements.  It is a place where people listen deeply and take time to hear what everyone has to say. There are friends of all abilities, loving, accepting and supporting one another.  It is a room in which people can dream and share their goals.  In this situation relationships begin and flourish.  It is a spot where those of us who talk are silenced and the only sound that fills the air is the voices of those who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). 

This is not fiction, this place exists, and if you were lucky enough to be in this room without doubt, you will have been profoundly touched and inspired.  The memories of this place will change your live in many ways.

The 3^rd Biennial Independence, Community and Empowerment (ICE) Canada conference happened March 23-25, 2007 in Toronto, Ontario. It is clear by the ever-increasing number of conference participants that once you have been to ICE you will keep coming back.  This year there were over 230 people in attendance from all across Canada.  The relationships formed were one of the many highlights of this year’s conference.  For this 3^rd ICE conference, it now feels like going back to camp to rekindle old friendships and make new ones.  The Art of Managing Change was the theme of the weekend. Speakers discussed the changes happening in their lives as well as challenges and successes.

At the 2^nd ICE conference a 10 year old boy inspired the conference planning committee. This young star showed us how important this event is, not only for adults who use AAC, but for people of all ages to share their stories, make new friends, and see the hopes and dreams of the future.  This young boy paved the way for so many and this time we were blessed with the presence of younger conference attendants to make us all smile.  Their youthful insight was unmatched!  Liam told us at the town hall meeting “I can’t believe so many ways to talk”, “I had a great time”. We were also fortunate to have the families of these young folks there to share with, and learn from. 

The program deserves mention of several significant contributions. Marlowe Horn eloquently chaired the weekend. She was a visible presence and role model for many others.  Thanks Marlowe!

The keynote speaker this year was the first Canadian to hold this honour. Anne Abbott, professional artist, spoke of her art and how it is a means of expression for her and has allowed her to “spread her wings”.  In addition, Anne graced us with a demonstration of how she accomplishes her precious works of art.

Paul Marshall, chair of the town hall meeting characterised the experience with; “The knowledge that we have today cultivates the sunrises of our tomorrows. We have the power in this room to alter and improve the quality of existence for others.”  Themes that emerged during the town hall meeting, during which only people who use AAC could participate, included transportation, poverty, employment, isolation, and independence. Everyone had their say!

Special guest Jim Prentice from the Pittsburgh Employment Conference (PECS) conference shared his story “With communication anything is possible”.  Jim discussed with humour his life experiences and exclaims that “His device has given him freedom to be independent”.  Jim also  “firmly believes that language and the ability to use it well, are two of the great equalizers for a severely disabled person”.