Table of Contents
Nature, laughter, weekend getaways, yoga, swimming with the dolphins… There are so many aspects of living our best lives with hearing loss. This issue captures the fullness of life that so many of us seek and embrace. From one woman’s love of the water and a magical encounter with dolphins, to another’s love of two remarkable deaf Great Danes, to one man’s ability to use the lens of humor to sprinkle each day with a little more joy—there’s a lot here to make you smile. And the September/October issue wouldn’t be complete without photos from our time together in Rochester at the HLAA2019 Convention.
We hope you’ll take a look. And we invite you to join HLAA to start receiving Hearing Life—along with the many other perks that belonging brings.
Water, Dolphins and Living My Best Life With Hearing Loss
By Valerie Stafford-Mallis
The author’s zest for life splashes through in this personal account of swimming with the dolphins―a very magical encounter that bolstered even further her determination to live her best life possible with hearing loss.
A Note From Our Executive Director
By Barbara Kelley
Excitement, Connection and Influence
Founder’s Corner
By Rocky Stone
I Miss the Sounds of Nature… But I Can Still Smell the Rose
Swimming Tips for People With Hearing Loss
By Valerie Stafford-Mallis
In this practical article, the author shares useful information she’s picked up along the way so swimming—and all kinds of water recreation—can remain an important part of her life.
Nama… What???
By David Seligman
Keeping a sense of humor handy does help us get through some of life’s stickier moments. In this whimsical piece, the author exercises his.
Accessibility Everywhere: Captions in Nontraditional Places
By John H. Capobianco
Knowing what’s possible makes it easier to both ask and advocate for what we need. This fact-filled article breaks down where captioned content is today and where it’s heading tomorrow.
Great Life Lessons From Deaf Great Danes
By Betsy Glick
Man’s best friend doesn’t get any more lovable than this. Enjoy the tales and wisdom of Great Danes Willow and Oliver in this endearing vignette—yet another demonstration of the transcendent powers of love, acceptance and belonging.
A Fall Foliage Getaway to Burlington, Vermont
By Kat Redniss
The splendor of New England’s fall foliage is nothing short of remarkable—and uplifting. Burlington, Vermont, makes a fun getaway. Included here are some ideas from a local Vermonter for a hearing loss-friendly weekend filled with autumn color.
Convention
By Amanda Watson
HLAA2019: A Convention to Remember
Walk4Hearing Update
There’s Nothing More Delightful Than Walk4Hearing!
Chapters
By Carla Beyer-Smolin
Chapters in Action