Personal Stories

Patti Leer
Patti Leer has lived with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) for many years. When her symptoms progressed and it became unsafe for her to transfer from her wheelchair to her car, Patti and her husband, Patrick, contacted PATF for assistance. "Patti, me as her caregiver, and anyone else helping her were all at increasing risk of injury caused by falls," says Patrick. "When transferring to transportation becomes too risky, you start deciding not to leave home." Continue reading...

Steven Singer
In 2005 Steven Singer experienced a sudden and profound hearing loss. Life as he knew it changed drastically. Many of his routine daily conveniences became inaccessible to him. He was isolated and lonely. "I could not call people, hear my door, wake up to an alarm - never mind, wake up if there were a fire," says Steven. Continue reading...

Pat Leahy
Before purchasing her hearing aids with a PATF loan in the spring of 2003, Pat Leahy never would have believed she'd work with the public again. In fact, she was not sure she would be able to work again at all. Continue reading...

William Forgrave
After serving his country in the U.S. Navy, William Forgrave never imagined having to fight just to get into his own home. But, after being diagnosed with congestive heart failure, renal failure and diabetes, that’s just what happened to the Philadelphia resident.Continue reading...

John and Sandra Pagliero
The Three Rivers Center for Independent Living (TRCIL) in Pittsburgh looks to promote equality, expand opportunities, and increase independence for people with disabilities. Lofty goals that come down to helping individuals connect with the resources they need, including PATF. Continue reading...

Emilio y Ana Pacheco
Emilio and Ana Pacheco see the importance of assistive technology (AT) every day. Their son, Joel, who has physical and intellectual disabilities, is included in school, has access throughout his house, and joins his family on outings to church, restaurants, the park and movies through the use of AT. Joel has hearing aids, glasses, a communication device, a wheelchair, home modifications, a modified van, and an adapted bicycle. Continue reading...