Apple IIGS and speech generation for handicaped

[baxter@pernet.net (Sam Baxter)]

Hello,

I have some friends who's daughter has ALS (Lou Gerigs Disease).  It
has left her without the ability to speak.  I have a  Apple IIGS I
would like to outfit with speech for her.  I think the IIGS has the
ability to do so.  Was any software ever developed that was
specifically for the handicaped.  If not, what would I need to create
speech with IIGS that would be recognizable and easily operated by
someone who may not be knowledgable about computers?    

As an alternative, they could have an apple II on both ends and use
chat mode with a terminal program.  If this is viable, what would be
the cheapest way to connect from Texas to Louisiana.  Any suggestions
would be much appreciated.   You may e-mail me at   baxter@pernet.net

Thanks
Sam