Sam is a self-employed tree fruit orchard producer in Kelowna, growing apples and pears on a small orchard. He has hearing loss.

“I believe this started sometime after a left a career in the local saw-milling business. I started noticing difficulty in deciphering audio from one ear and later on from both,” he shares, noting that his hearing loss made it difficult to communicate with his workers, as well as colleagues at crowded conferences that he attends for work.

His audiologist recommended that he apply to WorkBC Assistive Technology Services to help him afford hearing aids. He applied and was quickly approved.

“Without [Assistive Technology Services], I probably would not have proceeded with the ordering of hearing aids,” he says. “I have other pressing priorities such as putting food on my table and paying utilities and other overwhelming farming costs.”

Sam recommends WorkBC Assistive Technology Services to others in need.

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude,” he says. “I find a little more clarity in conversations with workers and colleagues, especially at conferences. Have avoided the embarrassing moments of confusion and repetitions during important conversations. I now look forward to attending many educational seminars on relevant horticultural topics.”

---

WorkBC Assistive Technology Services is operated by Neil Squire. Assistive Technology Services are available to individuals who have a work-related barrier due to a disability or a functional limitation. This may include barriers related to traveling to and from the workplace.

Questions about WorkBC Assistive Technology Services? Need help applying? Contact us: 1-844-453-5506 or info-ats@workbc.ca

Please visit www.workbc-ats.ca for more information about WorkBC Assistive Technology Services.

Tags: assistive technology, BC, Hearing Aids, WorkBC Assistive Technology Services