CCTV reader puts ex-Times man Findlay on right page
A FORMER Evening Times journalist has regained the ability to read his beloved newspapers after receiving a specialist magnifying gadget.
Glasgow-born Findlay McQuarrie, 90, has no central vision after being diagnosed with a macular degeneration, which is a debilitating eye condition.
Findlay, who was a reporter for the former Bulletin and Glasgow Herald in the 1950s, and who also contributed to the Evening Times, was “devastated” by the initial impact of the loss of his sight.
The charity Scottish War Blinded has now provided the former journalist with a CCTV reader, which projects anything held underneath its magnifier onto a large screen.
The picture can then be adjusted to make the text larger and more readable.
The retired newshound is also a National Service veteran, which meant the charity was able to provide him with the gadget free of charge.
Findlay said: “This CCTV reader is an indispensable piece of equipment for me.
“I use it every day, all the time. This past year I’d read
‘‘ It so simple to use...I just magnify the letters to the size I want
very little as I didn’t have the means to do it.
“It’s so simple to operate. It’s clear, I can simply magnify the letters to the size that I want them and I can change the background colour.
“It responds to all my reading requirements – it’s contributed to getting my independence back.”
Now living in Helensburgh, Findlay became a member of Scottish War Blinded in June last year. He was assessed by the charity’s rehabilitation team, who worked with him to determine which type of equipment would best suit his needs.
Findlay also receives regular visits and support from a Scottish War Blinded Outreach Worker, Allison West.
He added: “It’s just so good to have an immediate contact there – Allison knows I’m fond of a cup of tea.”