Kassie
Speaks as a Mother
& Advocate for
Healthy Hearing
Pics from Capitol Hill

National Campaign for Hearing Health

As many of you know, Kassie's 5-year-old son JQ was born with profound hearing loss.

She is hopeful that each of the 50 states will pass legislation requiring all newborns to
receive a hearing screening before leaving the hospital, and is eager to bring attention to this issue. Here, Kassie shares somehearing-related facts and a little bit of her family's own story with us.


1. Most people would probably be surprised to learn that hearing loss is the number one birth defect in America, and yet only 69% of newborns are screened for it before leaving the hospital. Were you surprised that JQ did not receive such a screening when he was born?

Kassie: I was not surprised that he was not tested. I was upset that at the time no one even mentioned hearing to us. We would have had him tested.

2. If an individual state doesn't require infant hearing screenings, can/should parents still request that it be done?

Kassie: Yes, you never know until a child is tested.

3. Can you explain why infant hearing screening is so important, and the significance of being able to diagnose hearing loss as early as possible?

Kassie: Common sense will tell you the earlier a child is diagnosed and is fitted with appropriate hearing technology, the earlier a child learns to hear and learn language

4. Many fans know that JQ received a cochlear implant, which is controversial in the deaf community. What helped you and James decide the implant was best for JQ?

Kassie: We felt the cochlear implant was the best solution for our family. We chose the oral approach because we wanted JQ to learn to speak and listen. We do plan to eventually learn to sign as a family...but it is not necessary for JQ because he can hear now with the implant

5.What was it like when you, along with James and JQ, spoke before Congress on Hearing Healthy Kids Day?

Kassie: We spoke before a select group of senators and representives. It very important for the legisastors hear stories of hope.

Just The Fact.....
How prevalent is Hearing Loss?
It's our nation's number one birth defect.

How much does a hearing screening cost?
Between $20-$50.

Why is infant hearing screening so important?
Early detection is crucial for intervention to be successful.

How many babies are currently being screened for hearing loss at birth?
69% but that is not enough as 12,000 babies are born each year with hearing loss in the US.... 1 in 300 babies are profoundly deaf...many with
no risk factors. Also the National Campaign for Hearing Health is concerned this number may go down given the funding cut in the President's FY 2003 budget -- they are currently lobbying Congress and the Senate to get this funding restored.

How can people get involved?
Urge new and expectant parents to have their babies hearing screened before leaving the hospital. Also, logon to www.hearinghealth.net to generate an online letter to your legislators about restoring infant hearing screening funding to the President's FY 2003 budget...