1. A computer-implemented method for enabling a patient to generate a speech message, the method comprising the steps of: recording a plurality of digital data files, wherein the step of recording is performed by the patient, and each one of the digital data files representing a respective speech segment spoken by the patient during a respective time interval; associating a different icon with each one of the digital data files; arranging the icons in an order representing the speech message composed of the respective speech segments; and generating an audible speech message from the digital data files in the order represented by the icons.