TBT: Navigating Deaf Advocacy and Cochlear Implants: Dr. Jessica Hissam's Journey and Insights

TBT: How does one navigate the intricate world of deaf advocacy and cochlear implants? Join us as Dr. Jessica Hissam, a distinguished deaf advocate and executive director of the Center of Advancement of Next Gen Deaf, shares her profound life story. Born deaf and diagnosed late due to the absence of newborn hearing screenings in 1993, Dr. Hissam's journey underscores the paramount importance of early pediatric hearing screenings. From different types of hearing loss to the critical urgency of treatment, Dr. Hissam's insights illuminate the complex landscape of deafness and the pressing need for education and advocacy.

Discover the essential elements of language acquisition and bilingual education for deaf children, as Dr. Hissam unpacks the systemic barriers that families often face. Through the inspiring story of a mother fighting for her deaf daughter's right to bilingual education, we learn about the resilience and determination required to challenge and change societal expectations. Additionally, Dr. Hissam guides us through the intricate decision-making process surrounding cochlear implants, explaining the importance of understanding audiograms, the "speech banana," and the technological advancements that can drastically improve quality of life for those with hearing impairments.

We also delve into the multi-faceted role of audiologists and the critical timelines for early hearing identification. Dr. Hissam highlights the gaps in insurance coverage and the necessity of specialized training for audiologists to ensure effective care. By addressing the intersection of physical health and compassionate care, this episode sheds light on the broader challenges within the deaf community, from identity and advocacy to the pressing need for inclusive policies and equitable access to hearing care. Tune in for a rich, educational, and deeply personal conversation that champions the cause of the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.

Follow Jessica here:
https://www.instagram.com/jess.hsquared/

You can now send us a text to ask a question or review the show. We would love to hear from you!

Follow me on social: https://www.instagram.com/babbles_nonsense/