Blind Computer Tech - Pitch Letter

Justin Riray
2/25/09
Mcom 100w MW 1:30 p.m.
Writing Pitch Letters
Word Count: 253

Dear Editor:

In one of the most boring subjects American society has to offer I found a diamond in the rough. A computer troubleshooting technician who works for Packard Bell can fix almost any computer malfunction or help customers fix them over the phone. He is blind -- sightless since childhood.

It is almost impossible to imagine trying to use a computer without being able to see what you’re doing. Doug Rose, 34, from Thousand Oaks Calif., is a self-taught electronics wizard. He uses special Braille equipment to operate his computer and a voice recognition system to tell him what is on the screen.

In addition to memorizing information that helps him diagnose problems, Rose uses his other senses to identify things. He often discusses certain sounds that a PC makes when helping troubled customers, usually correctly diagnosing the problem.

It is simply amazing and beautiful that a man who is blind has dedicated himself to guiding fully capable people through fixing their electronic devices. It almost seems backwards. He is so talented that the company forwards Rose the customer calls that most of the other technicians have a hard time diagnosing and fixing. Most callers never learn that he is blind.

I have researched the topic and plan to interview Rose and his colleagues to gain first-hand opinions and facts about him. Please let me know if you are interested in this article; I’d be more than happy to write it.


Sincerely,

Justin Riray – San Jose State, Journalism Major