Not to Be Excluded

This post is for all the fashionistas out there.  For those of your who watch (or don't watch) Project Runway, a hit reality TV show for upcoming talented fashion designers, this season was a "first".  After many years, they finally had their first deaf contestant. The selection process, as I've read, is grueling, so I can only imagine what it must have been like for someone with a major disability.  He required a translator for instructions and professional comments, but he seemed to be able to chit-chat with his fellow contestants with no help. 

He made it halfway through the season, before being "let go".  In his parting speech, he indicated that he hoped his presence  showed that a disability doesn't have to keep you from doing what you love.  I hope that the general public was as inspired as I was!

Protect the Children

In a recent article in the Epoch Times, MJ DeSousa, an audiologist, listed 5 ways to protect the hearing of children. 

The first was to turn down the music.  This means monitoring the volume and the use of earbud headphones.  The second was to play musical instruments with caution...think earplugs. Thirdly, practice good ear health.  Consult the doctor if you suspect an ear infection. Fourthly, wear the right equipment  for sports, helmets in particular.  Finally, children should have hearing health tests periodically (check to see if your local public school  or pediatrician does this.)

In looking back to my own childhood, I had my transistor radio as close to my head and as loud as possible.  Little did I know what damage it was doing!  It is too late for the "baby boomers" now, but at least we can teach the younger generation how to avoid unnecessary hearing problems.

My Dog and Me

I have the most wonderful dog.  He’s a maltepoo named Fonzie.  (Remember The Fonz from Happy Days?)  We rescued him about 2 years ago at a pet adoption event, and we bonded immediately.  When people praise our decision to adopt a rescue dog and give him a good home, I reply that Fonzie rescued us.  He gives us unconditional love, and a reason to smile constantly…what more could we ask for!  Every day, I spend time “talking “ to him.  He looks at me quietly, turning his head from side to side, not knowing what I’m saying. But he can tell from my smile, tone of voice, and gestures, that it pays for him to stick around.  Usually, I get a lick of appreciation for my efforts.  Recently, it dawned on me, that my situation is very similar to my dog.  All too often, I too, find myself in a group where I have trouble deciphering what is being said.  Looking at the others, I know when it will benefit me to stay, even if I have to struggle through the conversation.  Like Fonzie, I sit quietly, looking for the light at the end of the tunnel!

 

 

What's New on the Horizon?

Attached is the link for the current online version of Hearing Health magazine.  In it, you will find several articles about potential cures for hearing loss and tinnitus.  The one that most interested me was about a project to regenerate hair cells in the ear, my cause of hearing loss. In 1995, during a visit to the famous House Clinic in Los Angeles, I was told by a doctor that he expected this regeneration to become a reality within 20 years.....lets hope he is right!

The link is:   http//hearinghealthfoundation.org

The Second Time Around

I just submitted an essay to the LA Times...it's about LOVE.  It tells about my significant other, Fred, who came into my life 13 years ago. I had been divorced about 5 years at the time, and was ready for another chance at happiness.   Among all his wonderful qualities, Fred is patient and understanding of my hearing challenges. 

Writing this article, made me remember about my ex husband, who scowled when I asked him to repeat something.  It was so intimidating to me, that our conversations became fewer and fewer, until there were none at all. 

All the newest hearing technology cannot take the place of people who make you feel good about yourself, whatever the level of your disability.  Hopefully, you have "a Fred" in your life who can do that for you!

Grab the Gusto

Recently I was contacted by several childhood friends, with whom I haven't spoken in more than 30 plus years.  Now that we are in our sixties, we've all experienced one or more life or health challenges along the way.   It was interesting to see how these long time friends handled things.  A couple shook it off as a hard knock of life, but others, unfortunately, had trouble moving on. 

It made me think of those of us with hearing impairment.  We also have a choice...to get the best technology we can afford, choose compassionate friends, and do the best we can.  Our other choice is to retreat into our own, little world and socialize as little as possible.  This may be the easier choice, but is it really the wiser one?

We only go around once, but if you do it right, once is enough!

Check it Out

Check out the Hearing Loss of America (HLAA) website www.myhearingloss.org
Among other things, it has message boards, webinars, and chat rooms...make new friends and share information and concerns!