COVID made me realize just how dependent I had become on lip reading. Sitting in a large meeting room with dozens of people all wearing masks, I was catching less than half of what was being said. Some of these meetings, as Communications Director, I was expected to lead, yet there I was, struggling to keep up. It impacted my time management mostly, as I had to follow up one-on-one to be clear on what was said. And, at the time, there was my personal embarrassment at having to admit I was hearing challenged. It wasn’t one specific moment that caused frustration, just the daily wear and tear of feeling out of step sometimes—I missed a lot when masks were on. I hate masks.

Taking action made a huge difference. The amazing app for my phone allowed me to customize my needs for different situations. Even with masks, I still missed some from the low talkers, but I would say I went from about 40% comprehension in those large meetings to about 85% comprehension. It made a HUGE difference. In terms of my career, probably not much would have changed. But addressing my hearing loss definitely had a positive impact. As the head of the PR Department, I was able to engage so much more naturally. Instead of just nodding and smiling, especially with those low talkers and many of the elderly specifically who visited with me, I actually engaged more fully. They felt more heard and valued, and I felt like I was doing my job better.

P.S. – I know this is career-related, but now that I’m retired, I can tell you I would miss SO MUCH from my six grandchildren if I didn’t have these aids. I’m eternally grateful for you and your skill and your services.

– Mardi