Mom seeks help after tablet that aids brain-damaged son is stolen

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A Fresno woman's purse was stolen from her car, but what she lost is worth more than money can buy.

Susan Jeff lost her cellphone, credit cards and other personal items when her purse was stolen. But of all the items that were taken, it's the tablet that she needs back.

Jeff and her 12-year-old son stay mostly indoors on hot days like this. Ryan has severe brain damage and needs 24-hour care.

"When he was 2 years old, he had a near drowning accident. Until then he was perfectly normal, developing well," said Jeff.

Because of his condition, he can't talk or communicate. But just recently, the Jeffs bought a tablet. Apps like "My Talk Tools" replace words with pictures so people like Ryan can express what they need.

"It's become a part of our daily lives the tablet with him because he can't talk," said Jeff.

Which is why Jeff is so distraught her purse, along with her tablet, was stolen from her car.

"It's all gone and that didn't even faze me. It's the tablet. It affects him. It affects his daily life," said Jeff.

Jeff admits she was forgetful, as her car was unlocked when it was taken. But she had her hands full with Ryan who'd just had a seizure at school.

"You just don't think because your mind is all on one thing and that was not important at the time," said Jeff.

For now, they're hoping a good Samaritan returns her Samsung galaxy tablet. She's made craigslist ads and Facebook posts to raise awareness.

The thieves have spent cash, maxed out her cards and turned off the GPS locator on her tablet, but police haven't found any suspects. If you have any information about the whereabouts of this tablet, you should contact the Fresno Police Department.

If you would like to help the family, visit www.gofundme.com/a2clqg.