“I First Heard the Words, Hearing Loss in the Second Grade…”

My second grade teacher suggested I be screened for hearing loss and sit in the front row, but I was never diagnosed despite being tested from second to sixth grade. This caused constant struggles in school and work, leading to insecurity. In fourth grade, I couldn't complete an assignment due to lack of information and felt ashamed, but I didn't know how to ask for help. So I didn’t.

During my formative years, I faced challenges in various aspects of my life. I frequently found myself in confrontations with others over trivial matters. Additionally, and often I’d miss words, leading to frequent misunderstandings and miscommunications. This pattern repeated itself with different people, places, and situations, leaving me feeling frustrated and exhausted.

I recall lying awake at night worried, or feeling the need to confront someone to safeguard myself from being hurt. However, all I truly wanted was to have a friend and be one.

I recall a moment when my mother advised me against fighting the world. Despite this warning, I felt determined to protect this young girl (me, myself and I) who was often misunderstood. It took me years to break out of the pattern of jumping to conclusions, confrontations, and insecurity.

I was at work one day when suddenly everything seemed unusually quiet. Despite my co-workers chatting and laughing around me, I couldn't make out their words. In confusion, I approached a colleague, only to realize I couldn't hear her response. Panic set in, leading me to flee to the restroom and breakdown. This episode marked the beginning of a period of depression and self-realization - I had been denying my hearing loss for years, but now it was time to confront my reality.

Reflecting on my life, I realized I had clung to coping mechanisms that no longer helped me, leading to heartache and trials. Accepting this truth was tough, especially acknowledging my diagnoses. However, understanding that I was not alone provided the courage I needed to explore solutions like hearing devices, join a supportive hearing loss community, and discover my advocacy calling.

After joining the community for support, I noticed there wasn't any representation of Black women with hearing loss. There are no studies on how hearing loss affects the Black community, and many of us may not be getting the services and resources we need.

I decided to start a nonprofit called "EMPOWER AND HEAR" for Black women with hearing loss and launched VADAMS COACHING SERVICES to mentor and coach them. My goal is to change how our community views hearing loss, provide support and resources, and encourage seeking help sooner rather than later.

I want my blog to help people learn about hearing loss. I aim to provide information so that they can support themselves or their loved ones in living a more inclusive and fulfilling life despite hearing challenges.

Stay Empowered,

Valecia