When I came into the world in 1973, long before newborn hearing screenings became standard, my mother had an instinct that something was amiss with my hearing. Despite her concerns, the pediatrician brushed off her worries, insisting I was perfectly healthy. Yet, she didn’t give up. Her determination paid off when I was finally diagnosed with a significant hearing loss at 14 months.
My parents were new to the world of deafness. They faced a crucial decision: should they teach me to sign or focus on spoken language? They ultimately chose to emphasize speech, believing that while I could learn sign language later, the opportunity to develop verbal skills was fleeting. This decision was challenging, but they aimed for my long-term independence.
To support my development, my mother took an extended leave from her teaching career—her commitment lasting even longer when my younger sister was born deaf three years later. Every day, she drove me to speech and language therapy, and her teaching abilities proved invaluable at home. Being a mother to me meant constantly finding teachable moments; if I wanted a cookie, I needed to make a sound—no pointing allowed, not even for a “coco.”
As I entered school, my mother filled countless notebooks, exchanging messages with my teachers to discuss my progress and any issues that arose. Before the age of email, this communication was labor-intensive, but the saved notebooks now serve as a tangible record of my journey—filled with everything from successful milestones to heartfelt moments.
Thanks to her relentless efforts, I was able to join the mainstream public school system, continuing speech therapy through high school. My sister and I learned to advocate for ourselves and were exposed to a broad range of experiences. I eventually pursued higher education, got married, and started a family of my own. Now, when I encounter challenges with my children, I draw on the strength and perseverance my mother exemplified.
The word “perseverance” hardly encapsulates all that my mother did for me. It’s because of her unwavering support that I can express my gratitude today.
For more insight into parenting and home insemination, check out this resource. If you’re interested in at-home options, Make a Mom offers expert guidance. Additionally, if you’re looking for up-to-date information on fertility, Science Daily is an excellent resource.
In summary, my mother’s determination and love shaped my journey with hearing loss, teaching me the importance of resilience and advocacy. Her efforts made it possible for me to thrive, and I carry those lessons into my own parenting journey.