Hayley has always loved expressing herself creatively, whether through art or being adventurous. She has always been an artist, not defined by her multiple disabilities. However, as the disabilities progressed, Hayley began losing control in her hands and she began to struggle using creative outlets to express herself.
Simply holding onto creative utensils became what seemed like an insurmountable challenge, Hayley recalls, “I couldn’t hold onto and control anything in my hands like pens and paintbrushes,” she says, “I felt like I had lost a part of myself.”
Hayley first heard about Guided Hands® on Instagram, through an account she was following. She was excited to spot the ImaginAble Solutions booth at the ATIA Conference in January 2025 while exploring the exhibitor floor with her mom, who was pushing her wheelchair. Hayley immediately began moving her whole body and signalling to her mom to visit the booth. “I was very excited to see the device firsthand and have the opportunity to try it out,” she says.
Connecting with Guided Hands inventor, Lianna Genovese, in person that day proved to be a life changing experience.
Upon trying Guided Hands for the first time, Hayley was surprised at how easy and simple it was to use. She loved how the device was able to address the major access hurdles she was facing. Lianna was able to show Hayley how to quickly adjust Guided Hands with the Adaptations Kits. “Adding the budgie cords for resistance and the slant board really helped me customize the device to my needs,” says Hayley.
Hayley’s mom purchased the Guided Hands Bundle that day, but what mattered most came after the conference.
Guided Hands has given Hayley back the ability to be creative and have an outlet.
“I have been able to create art and enjoy my time again in creative ways, and not always be reliant on screens. Guided Hands has given me some of my independence back,” she adds, “I love being able to create paintings for other people.”
Little did Lianna know that Hayley was busy creating a special surprise for her.
Earlier this year, the ImaginAble Solutions team returned to Orlando for the 2026 ATIA Conference. Amidst all the busyness of the day and meeting so many amazing people, some familiar faces emerged. Lianna immediately remembered and recognized Hayley and her mom from the prior year conference.
Lianna was presented with a painting that Hayley had created with the help of Guided Hands. It was a painting of a hummingbird. In fact, it was the ImaginAble Solutions logo, in all the right colours too. Hayley was beaming with pride at the artwork she created for Lianna.
Overcome by emotion, Lianna recalls, “Standing there, holding a painting made by Hayley, using something I invented with my hands, was one of the most beautiful full-circle moments of my life.”
For Hayley regaining the ability to be creative independently has been a dream come true, but the relationships and support she has received along the way have been special.
“I haven’t just gained an exciting and helpful new piece of equipment,” she says, “I have gained a community of people who are supporting and encouraging me.”
Watch for more of Hayley’s creations making an appearance on our social media feeds.