A woman in San Luis Obispo was in need of Assistive Technology (AT) for members of her multigenerational family. She reached out to Central Coast Assistive Technology Center (CCATC) and connected with their Director, Paul Mortola.
She was so pleased with her family’s experience, that she sent in a heartfelt letter to express what her local Device Lending and Demonstration Center (DLDC) means to her.
To Whom it May Concern –
I am writing to send some acknowledgement and gratitude to the Central Coast Assistive Technology Center in San Luis Obispo! The CCATC has a “treasure trove” of equipment available to community members who might need some assistive supports for maximizing independence in everyday activities. Not only does the CCATC have a large supply of equipment in stock- but they will take the time to assess what supports might be needed. And, if they don’t have a product in stock, their helpful staff will try to search other state-wide lending programs to get the product that one might need!
CCATC has a “treasure trove” of equipment … for maximizing independence in everyday activities.
When my father was diagnosed with macular degeneration he struggled with reading text. Not only did reading bring him fulfillment, it also allowed him a degree of independence that was critical to his wellbeing. Paul Mortola from the CCATC was extremely patient in providing a variety of equipment to trial – from audio pens to digital voice recorders. He also helped to refer my dad for low-vision support services, assisted with accessing the Library of Congress Talking Books Program and helped my dad purchase an Eye-Pal Solo (which my 90- year-old dad affectionately nick-named “Eddie”!).
Check out the Eye-Pal Solo and more assistive technology at the NATADS Inventory website.
Recently, I have utilized the CCATC for supports for my son who has Autism and some articulation difficulties. My son loves using his “Amazon Alexa”, but Alexa isn’t quite clever enough to interpret what music my son is trying to request, resulting in some rather odd- and frustrating- music selections! Fortunately, because of the CCATC, I was able to trial a Go Talk 20 with my son before purchasing one, to see if it might be the right device to help this communication breakdown between Alexa and my son!
Check out the Eye-Pal Solo and more assistive technology at the NATADS Inventory website.
The CCATC has caring and helpful staff- and a whole lot of knowledge on devices and supports. They go “above and beyond” to help, understand the needs- and make navigating the world easier for many individuals.
Thank You, CCATC!
Seneca Jacobson
Paul Mortola is the Assistive Technology Specialist/Director at Central Coast Assistive Technology Center (CCATC) in San Luis Obispo, California. Click here to find an Ability Tools Device Lending and Demonstration Center near you!
