Crisselda uses a WATF Loan to Purchase a CCTV Magnifier

By, Frances Pennell

Crisselda Golla was born in the Phillipines and moved to Seattle a little over ten years ago.  Just three months after she arrived, Crisselda was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.  MS symptoms vary but typically include loss of motor function, fatigue and, in many cases, loss of vision on a temporary or permanent basis. 

Although Crisselda’s MS responded well to treatment with Interferon, she lost all of the vision in one eye and much of the vision in her other eye.  As a result, Crisselda could no longer continue her work as a day care provider.  Fortunately, she was able to transition to a part-time job with Lighthouse for the Blind of Seattle as a customer services representative.  

At work, Crisselda uses a “closed circuit tv” (CCTV) similar to the one pictured here.  CCTV’s use video cameras to capture and expand the size of the print or object being viewed – making it possible for individuals with significant vision loss to read, write, pay bills, and carry out other activities of daily living (sewing, hobbies, looking at pictures of their grandchildren, etc.).  Crisselda had wanted a CCTV for use at home for a long time but simply could not afford the hefty price tag – typically $3000 plus. 

With WATF’s help, Crisselda was able to locate and purchase a used CCTV for $1500 including three years of extended warranties.  Crisselda smiles when she talks about the prospect of being able to take out -- and read -- books from the neighborhood library.  She is especially eager to find books on American Sign Language (ASL) so that she can acquire the tools and signs she needs to communicate with her deaf-blind co-workers.   Crisselda also plans to use her CCTV to become certified as a medical transcriptionist as a means of supplementing her income.