Paul Schultz is autistic and the only way he can communicate is through his iPad. However, a few weeks ago it was stolen.
For a little over a year, Paul has been using his iPad, to communicate through the use of pictures and games.
Paul’s mother, Lindy Schultz, said this learning tool is usually not far from sight. However, on March 26 it was taken out of her truck.
"It's tough because he can't tell me if he is feeling bad, if he is sick, he can't tell me anything." Schultz said.
Paul’s learning aide Raymond Trice said Paul is at a disadvantage without the computer.
"Paul’s way of complaining is moaning," Trice said. "Making sounds and humming and whatnot and we know right then there is something he wants and without him having his iPad it’s hard to decipher what he really wants."
Schultz sent a letter to the Bradenton Herald asking the person who has Paul’s iPad to please return it.
Since her letter appeared in the paper, many people have been writing in asking how they can help. Some have even offered to buy Paul a brand new iPad.
"I want that person to know what its like to not be able to speak or to communicate," Schultz said. "Just for an hour and my son has been like that most of his life. I've seen him go through so many changes and so much frustration."
For more information, contact randi.nissenbaum@baynews9.com.