Donna has a rare form of muscular dystrophy that limits her ability to use a standard computer keyboard and mouse. She received an AT evaluation and was provided Fast-Track equipment that has allowed her to become employed from home. She works for a company that matches sign language interpreters who have specialized training with customers in need of medical or technical interpreting services. Donna was paired with the appropriate AT including voice recognition technology that allows full access to her computer and telephone interface.

Donna wrote, “IATP was instrumental in helping me to secure a laptop and computer accessories for my new work-from-home job. Not only did they accurately assess my disability-related needs, but they also worked with me to pinpoint the best specific equipment and software. IATP staff communication and knowledge has enabled me to be successful at my new job without having to worry about accommodating my disability. Thank you, IATP!”

Sonya and Rick are familiar with IATP’s Financial Loan Program and have used it multiple times over the years to purchase modified vehicles and other Assistive Technology. They recently purchased a new home and in order to make it accessible for Sonya they made modifications such as widening doorways and remodeling a bathroom in the lower level with a roll in shower. To make the home totally functional, they once again decided to utilize the IATP ATLoan Program to fund the purchase of a home elevator. The elevator has provided Sonya with access to their entire home. More information on the IATP loan program is available on the Financial Loans for AT webpage.

Victoria is a classically trained musician who plays the viola. Due to a childhood bone deformity, she has limited range of motion in her arms and wrists. She has never been able to reach the upper registers, also known as “the heavens,” thus limiting her ability to fully master the viola. Luthier Noah Scott of Seman Violins was able to construct a unique instrument by eliminating one of the upper bouts and narrowing the thickness of the neck, allowing Victoria to literally reach new heights in her playing. Victoria is a student at Illinois State University where she will graduate with a degree in stringed orchestral music. She plays in the University orchestra and teaches children stringed instruments. After graduation, she plans to make a living teaching stringed instruments.

John, a registered nurse for the past 40 years, was born with some facial paralysis, causing an inability for one eye to close on its own. As time went on, his overall vision deteriorated. He was informed that the strength of his glasses had reached their maximum benefit. Given that his job requires him to review medical charts to help prepare patients for surgery, his vision is critical. John was crushed by the news that the prognosis for his sight and future employment was poor. Fortunately, his eye doctor gave him information about IATP. John said, “It was like a breath of fresh air. I had hope again.” IATP provided device demonstrations that allowed John to compare features of different devices that would enhance his field of vision. He borrowed equipment from the Device Loan Program and was able to determine which would best suit his needs. John is still able to work in surgery thanks to special software for his computer, a camera that can project the image of documents on a larger computer screen and a big keys keyboard.