The ableFamilies Parent Enthusiast team is made up of parents whose children use the QuickTalker Freestyle speech device. They understand the journey—the therapy appointments, the breakthroughs, the daily routines that make communication possible. As Parent Enthusiasts, they lead seminars, events, and outreach to share their experiences and connect with families navigating similar paths. Meet the parents who are here to walk alongside you.
I’m a proud mom to two boys, ages 13 and 7. My oldest son, who’s neurodivergent, loves playing baseball and basketball, while my youngest is a non-speaking autistic QuickTalker Freestyle user. His “Talker” is part of our family, helping him communicate and thrive. I’m passionate about supporting other parents as they navigate their AAC journey and celebrate every voice.
“Giving my non-speaking child a voice through AAC has been a game-changer. Learning to use his Talker has been an adventure filled with discovery and growth, and I’m honored to be a part of ableFamilies and walk alongside other families as they learn to use their devices and gain their voice.”
Dana Allred Manager, ableFamilies
Meet Mark – Northeast & Mid Atlantic Regions
I’m a U.S. Navy veteran, a devoted husband, and a proud father. My autistic son has been using the QuickTalker Freestyle for the past two years, and the experience has deeply shaped my perspective on communication and inclusion. I’m passionate about educating others about the autistic community and spend my free time reading, listening to audiobooks, and growing my BookTok account.
“Once our son received his QuickTalker Freestyle, it opened up a world of communication. It’s been amazing watching him find his voice.”
Mark Randall Parent Enthusiast
Meet Jessica – Southeast Region
I’ve been married for nine years and am a proud mom to three children-ages six, four, and one. My oldest son, Justin, is level 3 autistic and has many high support needs. He primarily communicates with his QuickTalker Freestyle and has occasionally spoken functional words. I advocate for his needs daily, whether through insurance, school, or therapy. I know firsthand the challenges and triumphs of this journey and am passionate about supporting others.
“Justin’s life has been totally transformed by having the Quick Talker device. Before, I could only guess what he wanted, but now-he uses his device on a daily basis and can choose an icon for I want Mommy or an icon for his favorite snack (pretzels). I am getting to know my son more and more with his ability to communicate with the QuickTalker.”
Jessica Dyksterhouse Parent Enthusiast
Meet Keirra
Keirra and her husband are proud parents to four children—three girls and one boy. Their son Keinan, a lively 5-year-old with level 3 autism, is at the heart of their story. The QuickTalker Freestyle AAC device has helped Keinan share his needs and feelings, making communication clearer for the whole family. Keirra loves how the device can be personalized and encourages other families to take advantage of its features.
“It’s given my husband and me clarity to know what our son needs, wants, and how he’s feeling.”
Kierra Harmon Parent Enthusiast
Mitzy
Mitzy is an Army veteran living in Olympia, Washington, with her husband Jeremy, who is currently serving, and their two children, Ezra and Lily. The family loves spending time outdoors, hiking, and visiting the zoo. Lily, their youngest, uses a QuickTalker Freestyle AAC device—affectionately called “Lily’s Voice”—which has become an essential part of her daily life.
“Explore all the features early and personalize the device—hearing my own voice on Lily’s device made a big difference for our family.”
Mitzy Miller Parent Enthusiast
If you have any questions about ableFamilies, you can contact us directly here.
