The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Rod MacLaren, a visually impaired war veteran from Auchterarder, can “see” again thanks to hi-tech glasses.
Device which turns text into speech means 83-year-old can shop once more
A “bionic” war veteran is able to “see” properly for the first time in more than two decades thanks to a hi-tech gadget.
Rod MacLaren from Auchterarder in Perthshire was diagnosed with Stargardt disease in 1994. The genetic condition results in the loss of vision in the eye’s central field.
The 83-year-old, who served in Egypt, Aden and Gibraltar, found his eyesight had become so bad he often came back from the supermarket with the wrong items.
However, he has now been gifted with a special set of glasses which turn text into speech, allowing him to “read” for the first time in years.
The OrCam MyEye was given to Rod by sight loss charity Scottish War Blinded.
Rod said: “When I was first told about the OrCam I thought it wouldn’t be for me – I thought it would be a great big thing.
“But I was sold on it as soon as I had the demonstration. It’s incredibly clever and very easy to use.
“It’s a fantastic gadget and it makes a big difference to the day-to-day.
I can read letters, pick out an audio book at the library and go to the supermarket to do my shopping without help. ROD MACLAREN
“I can read letters, pick out an audio book at the library and go to the supermarket to do my shopping without help.
“I have lived here for the past 18 years so I know my way around.
“But last year I was getting to the stage where I needed someone to accompany me to the supermarket to help pick out the products and tell me what they were.
“I would come back with the wrong items, which was frustrating. I was really relying on the help of strangers.
“I think people can be wary of technology like this and think it won’t suit them. But I think you just have to give these things a go.”
The OrCam was suggested by Marjory Kirkwood, a Scottish War Blinded outreach worker for Perth and Kinross.
Marjory said: “I’m very pleased with how the OrCam has helped Rod so far.
“He’s an extremely thoughtful and independent gentleman who is very active in his community. He truly deserves this piece of equipment.”
Rod joined Scottish War Blinded eight years ago after discovering he was eligible for membership having completed two years’ national service as a private with the Seaforth Highlanders.
The charity gives free support to ex-servicemen and women of all ages, no matter if they lost their sight during or after service.
Its services include rehabilitation and training to adapt to sight loss, grants for equipment to assist with independent living, funded respite care and home modifications.