Google with Guide.Posted on March 11th, 2009

Did you know; that even today, 96% of books never become available in formats that people with sight problems can read?

Furthermore; in the United Kingdom, 66% of blind and partially sighted people of working age are unemployed.

I’m one of the sixty six percent.

Just how many employers would take on board a totally blind guy, who is also a recipient of two transplants - kidney & pancreas, and has a heart murmur, enlarged heart, has a history of angina, suffers with intermittent claudication, has an enlarged clapped-out bladder and has to self catheterise up to eight times a day?

Hum!

But hey, the reason I’m sharing these facts isn’t because I want folks to dwell on my disability. No!

Instead; I would like to let folks know about a software for blind and partially sighted computer users, and the ability to access the Internet.

Although I’ve had training in how to use braille, due to an accident, and poor circulation, I’m unable to read braille with ease.

I’ve had the occasional talking newspaper or magazine, but have discovered if I accumulate too many of these I get a back-log and haven’t got the time to catch up.

My main source for news is Sky News on satellite television.

I occasionally listen to the radio, and sometimes listen to audio books.

However, when researching information, looking for facts, good content etc., I’m inclined to use the Internet.

With help from “Guide,” my talking screen reader, I’m able to Google.

“Google with Guide!”

[Because of Guide; Google has become my point of reference, my source of information, my library!]

In fact; this talking software also enables me to send & receive Emails, read & write letters & documents, listen to compact disc’s, digital video disc’s, and so on.

What is more; I can download podcast’s, use Skype and even chat to friends via instant Messenger!

The Instant Messenger is a new feature to “Guide,” and I’m very impressed with it!

For me; the “Guide” talking software has become a kind of “lifeline.”

O yep, I’ve got my piano!

And; in the right season I can potter around on the patio.

But for me, being able to use my lap-top, having the ability to communicate with others, and having access to the Internet - has been a . support that enables me to continue doing something - providing me with an essential connection with the outside world!

Guide: A product of Software Express, part of the Dolphin Group.

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