Don and Lorraine have been married for 25 years and have run a farm, raised three children, and shared a life together. But their lives would be forever changed when Don was diagnosed with ALS in 1995. Don’s motor function gradually deteriorated, and he was on a ventilator and unable to speak within five years. Lorraine admits that it was difficult for her when he lost his voice.

Lorraine, on the other hand, persevered, taking on the responsibilities that Don did for their business while caring for him and their children.

Lorraine heard Mick Ebeling from Not Impossible Labs talking on the radio one day and reached out to him to see if he could help her husband. Mick’s company develops accessible technology-based solutions for health, mobility, and communication. and approached him to see if he could assist.

Don had been communicating with Lorraine by pointing at a letter board with his eyes. Recognizing the potential for computer technology to replicate and improve on this process, Mick and a group of volunteers set to work developing something to assist Don in speaking.

They created a program and a device that allows Don to quickly scan the screen, stringing words together into sentences and simulating an audible voice.

Don could speak quickly and share what was on his mind after 15 years. What was one of the first things he said? “I can’t imagine my life without you, Lorraine.” You made the last 25 years fly by, and the last 20 years with ALS bearable. I can’t wait to spend the next 20 years with you. Don, love.”

Watch the rest of this touching story below, and be prepared to cry.