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...
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