With Thanksgiving here, we’re feeling especially grateful. Thank you, truly, for being part of our Hearing Health Foundation community, some of whom I was fortunate enough to meet over the summer and fall.
Access Isn’t One Size Fits All
Even within the d/Deaf and hard of hearing umbrella, our access needs and identities vary widely. That in-between space can feel like nowhere—not “hearing enough” for the hearing world, not “Deaf enough” for Deaf spaces.
Breaking Barriers and Creating a More Inclusive World
Living without the sense of hearing may bring barriers, but it does not mean living without independence or success. Our role, as people with typical hearing, is to listen, support, and work to improve the systems that are built around us.
From Gradual Hearing Loss to National Advocacy
Before I discovered CART, I often felt left out, despite being physically present. This gap in awareness affects thousands of people. That’s why I speak up, because access delayed is opportunity denied.
A Lost Dachshund’s Lesson About Connection
Dogs, like human beings, need social interaction and the company of others. That’s important for people with hearing loss to remember. So as challenging as it may be, it’s important that we stay connected and try to communicate.
Confusion, Then Clarity
As parents, the sooner we acknowledge that the situation feels tough or overwhelming—and accept that it’s okay not to have all the answers—the sooner we can come to terms with the world of hearing loss and embrace it.
Everyone Can Feel Included This Holiday
There are simple strategies we can all embrace to create a more inclusive holiday experience that everyone can enjoy and to ensure our loved ones truly feel the love and joy we have for them.
Help Childen With Hearing Loss Be Camp-Ready
Alongside the typical checklist for camp preparations, such as bug spray and sunscreen, consider preparing for scenarios where your child may need to speak up about communication needs and otherwise self-advocate so they can fully participate.
More Like a Boost
Are There Benefits to Hearing Loss?
Once I realized that hearing loss isn’t anything to be ashamed of, little by little, I started to speak up for myself. The more I did, the more confident I felt. This confidence has reached all areas of my life.