So the World May Hear Magazine-Issue No. 1, 2015 by Starkey Hearing Foundation

hear so the world may

I S S U E NO. 1 , 2 0 15

Starkey Hearing Foundation

Training Leaders Empowering Community-Based Hearing HealthCare Workers

PERU • ETHIOPIA • CHINA • AFGHANISTAN • KENYA • TANZANIA ZIMBABWE • SRI LANKA • PHILIPPINES • UGANDA • SOUTH AFRICA • MINNESOTA

EMPOWERING CHANGE See a need. Find a solution. Give of yourself For the betterment of others. Leave each person you touch Better than you found them. Empower with words, Action.

Be the change.

Tell us your thoughts: facebook.com/starkeycares

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Inside 4

Founderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note Bill Austin dedicates his life to caring and sharing.

Reel A peek at stunning documentary films of hearing missions and more.

Engage News and posts from friends worldwide. Field Notes Listen Carefully Stands Up for Skateparks.

Noteworthy Inspiring collective impact.

Firsthand Okello Sam.

Sounds Good Can you identify this sound?

We want to hear from you. Tell us your thoughts: facebook.com/ starkeycares 6700 Washington Avenue South Eden Prairie, MN 55344 www.starkeyhearingfoundation.org 12555 Jefferson Boulevard #150 Los Angeles, CA 90066 Starkey Hearing Foundation is incorporated as a 501(c)(3) public tax-exempt charitable organization.

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Recent Missions 16

Cusco, Peru Shining on Cusco.

Dali, China Living a tranquil life.

Colombo, Sri Lanka Our first Sri Lanka hearing mission.

Huancayo, Peru Braving the Ticlio Pass.

Lijiang, China Ending with a dance.

Chimbote, Peru Accepting powerful help.

Kabul, Afghanistan Returning to serve the people.

Puerto Princesa, Philippines Reconnecting a family through music.

Trujillo, Peru Discovering the rhythm of Peru.

Kibera, Kenya Providing hope and hearing.

General Santos, Philippines Cheering on a local legend.

Mekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ele, Ethiopia Living a dream.

Lodwar, Kitale, Malindi, Kenya Bringing hearing to local students.

Lipa City, Philippines A Thanksgiving hearing mission.

Axum, Ethiopia Taking a pilgrimage to the heart.

Manila, Philippines Jessica Sanchez joins the team.

Living in the Light Endrias gets settled in Minnesota.

Dar es Salaam, Kigoma, Mwanza, Tanzania Changing lives in Tanzania.

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Kampala, Uganda The president lends a hand.

Kunming, China Experiencing the diversity of China.

Moshi, Arusha, Tanzania A stunning setting.

South Africa Finishing strong.

Loibosoit, Tanzania Reuniting with old friends.

Chuxiong, China Taking on the dragon.

Harare, Zimbabwe Reaching young people in need.

Minnesota Vikings Mission Hometown hearing mission with the Vikings.

T raining the Leaders

Our community-based hearing health care training empowers local teams to develop sustainable systems of care.

Women Lead the Way The heart and soul of our community-based hearing health care program are women.

Scaling the Gift of Hearing Bill Austinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fitting method brings simplicity and sustainability to hearing health care.

Ensuring Continued Support Fueling change with the Argyros Family Foundation.

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BILL AUSTIN dedicates his life to caring and sharing.

Founder’s Note Starkey Hearing Foundation was established with the vision — So the World May Hear. Over the last 30 years, we have expanded the Foundation’s reach from Minnesota to across the United States and around the world. The Foundation travels the globe delivering the gift of hearing to thousands of people each year who would otherwise live in the isolation of a silent world. However, providing hearing health care alone does not completely dissolve the psychological barriers that continue to cause many of these children and adults to believe they are limited in ability. I stand firmly behind the belief that there is no such thing as disability, only ability. This belief guides each and every interaction the Foundation has with patients in the field. By reflecting love and care into the lives of each person we meet, we hope to send this message: “You are important. You matter. You are an important part of this community and our world. You deserve a chance to reach your full potential in life.” The gift of hearing opens up a whole new world of opportunity. It connects individuals to life and helps them realize they can accomplish more than they ever thought possible. Hearing aids are important tools, but we strive to empower the people we help achieve better lives and to leave them with the knowledge that they too can improve the lives of others. It is up to all of us to help light the way. With the help of thousands of donors, partners, sponsors and volunteers, the Starkey Hearing Foundation team goes to work every day to make the world a better place for individuals, families and communities around the world. Join us by reflecting in your actions caring and sharing, together we are stronger. So the world may hear,

William F. Austin 4

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Short documentary films await you at youtube.com/StarkeyHearingFndn. Check them out and let us know what you think.

Reel We round up our latest storytelling.

Changing Lives with Matt Nathanson For his latest music video, "Headphones," Matt Nathanson joined us in Peru to give the gift of hearing and showcase the impact of our work. Nathanson helped us connect more than 1,000 people to the world of sound in 48 hours, but he made a special connection with a young boy named Jesus. Grab some tissues and watch the behind-the-scenes story. David Backes Joins the Team The gift of hearing takes on deep personal meaning for NHL player David Backes. His wife, Kelly, has hearing loss. In our recent short film, David and Kelly join us in Kenya for their first hearing mission and talk about their dedication to making the world a better place.

“Being able to give back as much as you can is a crucial part of being a human being.” MATT NATHANSON

Jessica Sanchez Brings Music to the Philippines In the wake of a devastating typhoon, singer Jessica Sanchez traveled with the hearing mission team across the Philippines, helping to give the gift of hearing to thousands. Check out this short film and follow Sanchez on an inspiring journey.

“When they start smiling, I can’t stop smiling either. I’m so happy to be a part of this and give back to my people.” JESSICA SANCHEZ

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“It’s probably the one thing I have done in my life where I saw the instant impact.” DAVID BACKES

Letters and posts from you – on the web and in the mail.

Engage Social media has been buzzing with Starkey Hearing Foundation.

Follow the conversation @starkeycares. @DC2forlife: I may be done [for the season] but along with helping my teammates get better, I’m going to help @starkeycares!

@katie_brokaw: @PaulFletcher97 I’m listening to you play @mattnathanson – Did you see the music video from @starkeycares?

@andygrammer: My man @mattnathanson shot a video to help those with hearing disabilities. Check it out … every click counts.

@cities97radio: Watching @mattnathanson’s powerful new video for #Headphones raises money for @starkeycares! It’s 4 mins well spent.

@PeteHutchison: Just got my @starkeycares swag!! T minus 3 weeks until I party with 3,000 local Maasai. So the world may hear!

@HopeNorth: Thanks @starkeycares for joining as sponsors for @HopeNorth gala. We’re so excited to celebrate with you @OkelloKeloSam @ForestWhitaker

@RitaWilson: @mattnathanson love your song #Headphones & video @starkeycares Please watch & RT. Makes you feel good about the world.

Dear Good People of Starkey Hearing Foundation, It might seem funny to get a donation in a thank you card, but I think it’s fitting. I have a physical challenge of my own – cerebral palsy. And it has influenced my perspective for my whole life. It’s also made me thankful for everything I do have, including my hearing. Through surgeries, hospital stays and other situations, I have relied on my headphones, on the voices I know to reassure me and on familiar lyrics and comforting music – the Beatles and James Taylor since day one, and absolutely, Matt Nathanson since I first heard and met him 12 years ago. His work with you is heartwarming, eye-opening and most importantly, necessary. I’m thankful he can connect with you and connected you to his fans and supporters. Thank you for everything you do to bring and restore hearing around the world. Warmest regards, Jocelyn Cohen

@PanicAtTheDisco: Woah. Might’ve cried a bit. Watch the @mattnathanson vid to get the same feels. @starkeycares

“I joined @starkeycares in Peru last month to provide hearing aids to people in need & shoot a video for ‘Headphones.’” Tweeted by @mattnathanson

@HARPER04_5: @starkeycares @StarkeyHearCEO the best people in the world. I miss them and doing great things.

@djkhaled: Am proud to be a hearing ambassador to the Starkey Hearing Foundation! Follow & check out their life-changing work.

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Our goal. The goal is clear: Deliver more than 1,000,000 hearing aids this decade. The reason is obvious: Help people in need, in turn transforming families and communities. The method is effective: Reach out to hearingimpaired children and adults around the globe â&#x20AC;&#x201D; many living in isolation, at home and in developing countries. The results are life changing.

Learn more and join the movement Tell us how you can help: facebook.com/starkeycares Or donate now by visiting:

give.starkeyhearingfoundation.org

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Giving the Gift of Hearing: Globally Bill Austin began with the desire to make a difference 50 years ago. He followed up with action. To date, Starkey Hearing Foundation has given more than 1 million hearing aids to people in need throughout the world. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re building a global network of care â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and you can help.

1 + 1 = 2 = million hearing aids already provided

million hearing aids this decade

million hearing aids

Countless lives changed as we impact not just the person in need but also their family and community with the gift of hearing.

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Tony Hawk brings the Listen Carefully message home.

Field Notes

Listen Carefully Stands Up for Skateparks Listen Carefully partners with Tony Hawk to amplify the importance of hearing protection. The grass was still damp from the overnight dew as the Starkey Hearing Foundation team marched onto an expansive lawn ready to spread the Listen Carefully message at the Tony Hawk Foundation’s 11th Annual Stand Up for Skateparks benefit. We laid out hearing protection, brochures, stickers, and bags, and our booth was soon awash in pops of bright orange from Listen Carefully wristbands piled high in baskets and soft picnic blankets rolled out under the shade of umbrellas. Longtime supporters Christopher Massey and Kyle Massey were on hand throughout the day. They helped keep our booth lively, passing out blankets and bags, sharing stories from their multiple hearing mission adventures, and encouraging everyone to Listen Carefully. By noon, the crowds started wandering in, and their curiosity piqued when they walked by. “What are those?” many asked, pointing to a basket full of black plastic canisters. When guests discovered we were giving away hearing protection, their eyes lit up as they exclaimed: “That’s awesome!” “What a great idea!” “I can definitely use these!” Throughout the day, bands played onstage, and Tony Hawk and other skaters took turns riding the half-pipe. We spied our hearing protection in the ears of so many people, especially those closest to the stage! Further driving home the Listen Carefully message, our team took music lovers and skaters through a 10

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unique sound experience. With headphones on, our customized iPad app played a series of recognizable skateboarding sounds. When the sound was adjusted to simulate various levels of hearing loss, guests’ faces turned from excitement to concern. We utilized this opportunity to share the importance of hearing protection, especially among children and teenagers, who are experiencing hearing loss sooner than their parents and grandparents. Today, one in six teens has noise-induced hearing loss from high-volume sounds. Despite those facts, we shared the good news that noise-induced hearing loss is preventable, and guests walked away not only with hearing protection, but also with an increased awareness for what their lives might sound like with hearing loss. Before leaving our booth, guests paused in front of a large empty banner that asked a simple question: What would you miss? They were asked to write the sounds they would miss most if they lost their hearing. By the end of the day, the empty banner was transformed into a beautiful tribute to the power of hearing and included sounds like ocean waves, the voices of loved ones, wind and music. Although the entire afternoon was fun and festive, it was also loud! Music played, skaters sped down the half-pipe, and announcements blared from loudspeakers. It was an ideal opportunity to spread the message of hearing loss prevention at an amazing event benefiting a wonderful cause. The Tony Hawk Foundation supports at-risk youth through the development of free public skateparks across the U.S. and internationally by supporting programming that enriches the lives of youth through skateboarding.

Photos courtesy of Tony Hawk Foundation 2014.

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Starkey Hearing Foundation at Clinton Global Initiative.

Noteworthy

Inspiring Collective Impact Starkey Hearing Foundation joins the Operation Change panel to discuss partnerships and storytelling. There was a standing-room-only crowd of global leaders in business, philanthropy and policy to hear Bill Austin and Steven Sawalich, creators of Operation Change, discuss the power of partnerships and storytelling at the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) annual meeting. The Foundation’s work was featured throughout Operation Change, the 10-part documentary television series that highlights the power of philanthropic partnerships around the globe. The series also leverages an interactive web platform to showcase the work of dozens of amazing organizations, including the Foundation. Operation Change provided a groundbreaking opportunity to marry storytelling and philanthropy. Discussing his reasons for creating the series, Austin said, “We realized that many people are doing good work that should be known about, but the light of that work is hidden from the world in all of the noise of what’s wrong.” Throughout the lively discussion with Austin and Sawalich, both discussed the Foundation’s work and emphasized the power of storytelling to bring about a shift in collective consciousness that has the power to inspire great change. Two Foundation partners also joined them on the stage. Donna Karan, a fashion designer and the founder of Urban Zen, talked about inspiring artisans and building economies in developing countries. Working with the skills of local people, her organization develops fashions 12

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that are sold around the world. Their business model builds economic opportunities within the community. “How do we help the developing world? By accessing what they are good at,” said Karan. “It’s not about giving people money. It’s about giving people jobs. It’s about giving them hope, giving them a future.” Barbara Bush, the CEO and a co-founder of Global Health Corps (GHC), also joined the panel to discuss training future global leaders in health care. GHC identifies the best and brightest future leaders in global health and partners them with organizations in need of their skills. GHC fellows work with us throughout Africa and also in the U.S. Talking about the importance of partnering across borders and cultures, Bush said, “The lessons are endless. We need to think creatively about how to implement them to ensure that there is dignity in people’s lives.” Although each person on this CGI panel came from different backgrounds and experiences, the message was clear: ideas and creative solutions build on one another, creating the potential to solve some of the world’s most troubling issues. It was also clear that these stories of ingenuity needed to be told in order to harness inspiration and innovation to build a better future. Watch the Foundation in action on Operation Change and explore interactive content about the team, locations and other nonprofit organizations at www.operationchange.com.

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Recent Missions

Minnesota Afghanistan

China

Philippines

Ethiopia Sri Lanka Uganda Kenya Tanzania

Peru

Zimbabwe South Africa

September to December 2014

We have delivered the gift of hearing to more than

100 countries.

majority

The

of people with disabling hearing loss live in low- and middle-income countries.

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In developing countries,

children with hearing loss and deafness rarely receive any schooling.

Respect life by giving back.

respect

noun / r 'spekt/ 1. A feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities or achievements. e

2. An act of giving particular attention. 3. A feeling or understanding that someone or something is important, serious and should be treated in an appropriate way. S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

PERU

Mission:

Population: 29.5 million

Languages:

Spanish, Quechua and Aymara

Cusco, Peru

cusco

The sun shines on Cusco. HIGH IN THE SOUTHERN SIERRA REGION of Peru lies the former capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco. When the Spanish invaded the region in 1533, Cusco became the center for Spanish colonization and the spread of Christianity in the Andes. Great churches were built atop indigenous temples as Spanish and Inca art and architecture blended. In this well-preserved ancient city, the team welcomed a group of enthusiastic volunteers. Our lead hearing mission sponsor Audigy joined us with a team of experienced hearing health professionals, ready to work. We were incredibly grateful for their skilled assistance. Disney actress Caroline Sunshine and her father Thom also brought their light, energy and kindness to the team, truly embodying their family name. This duo arrived each day bright and early and worked until the very last patient was fit. Their passion for the gift of hearing comes from an honest place. As a child, Caroline struggled with hearing loss that was not discovered until her dance teacher noticed she was having a hard time keeping up with the music. Once her hearing issues were corrected, her entire connection to life changed, and because of this, she felt a deep kinship with the patients.

Caroline Sunshine

Thom Sunshine

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One 86-year-old grandmother named Maria had a special impact on Caroline. Initially when she arrived, Maria was quiet and focused. Once Caroline helped to fit her, Maria’s eyes came to life, and her joy and wisdom came pouring out. “Stay in school. Be true to yourself,” she cried, overjoyed to be able to share her wisdom and caring in the world of sound.

Beth McMillin

Doug McMillin

special thanks: Audigy — Brandon Dawson, Jay Underwood, Kim

Ortega, Cathy Martine, Jane Rosner, Jaquie Elcox, Pam Riley, Tami Ike, Sharon MacDuffee, Joanne Kessler, Dan Fick, Doug and Beth McMillin

September 2014

Religion: Christian

Jay Underwood & Pam Riley

Cathy Martine

Kim Ortega

Jane Rosner

Joanne Kessler

Sharon MacDuffee

Dan Fick & Tami Ike

special thanks: Thom and Caroline Sunshine, Caroline Hurtado, Alejandro Valdez, Carol Nickless, Samantha Canals, Jane Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien, Stuart Spencer, Kim Ortega, Nathan Miller

Nathan Miller

Derek Walz

Jaquie Elcox

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Mission: huancayo

Huancayo, Peru Our team braves the Ticlio Pass to give the gift of hearing. OUR TEAM, VOLUNTEERS AND SPONSORS are willing to do just about anything to reach people in need with the gift of hearing. In Peru, this meant braving the Ticlio Pass, one of the highest paved roads in the world. In the Peruvian Andes, the Ticlio Pass towers 15,807 feet above sea level with its prayer-inducing bends, switchbacks through icy snow peaks, stomach-churning drops and no stops. It is the only way to get to Huancayo.

Matt Nathanson

Brady Forseth

The students were not alone in their dedication to the gift of hearing. Longtime friend of the Foundation Jane O’Brien and musician Matt Nathanson also joined the team. In lieu of a making a traditional music video for his new single, Nathanson made a donation to the Foundation and filmed a video at the hearing mission. Despite the video crew around him, he kept his focus on the patients, forming a special bond with one young boy. Eight-yearold Jesus spent his entire life in silence, struggling to share his bright spirit with the world. Once Nathanson fit him, Jesus’ face lit up, and he began to try to find a way to communicate his gratitude, moving his parents, Nathanson and much of the team to tears of joy.

Jane O'Brien

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special thanks: Rotary Clubs of Peru, Matt Nathanson, Gary and

Julie Hammers, Michael Patti, Mel Soria, Brendan Walter, William Roach, Steven Anderson, Warren Brown, Stacey Trepanier, Ryan Malkiewicz

View from the Summit Yuraccochas I – Ticlio, Huarochiri, Lima, Peru – by Josue Hermoza – Own work. Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

Ticlio Pass

Our courageous group of audiology student volunteers drove all night on a bus through the pass to reach our hearing mission in Huancayo. Upon arrival, a sympathetic Bill and Tani Austin, who had done the same drive the night before, greeted the students. Even after little sleep, the students’ enthusiasm for the work and the patients was evident. They stayed focused on the needs of each patient and did not stop until everyone was fit with hearing aids.

September 2014

Julie Hammers

Warren Brown

Kirsten Euscher & William Roach

Gary Hammers

Stacey Trepanier

Steven Anderson

Ryan Malkiewicz

special thanks: Kirsten Euscher, Heather and Kirk Jensen, Carol Nickless,

Samantha Canals, Jane Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien, Alberto Zavaleta, Barry Quinlivan, Maria Placensia, Santiago Camacho, Jim Young, Michelle Hurley, Stephanie Loccisano

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Mission:

Chimbote, Peru

chimbote

Our team gets powerful help from the University of Utah. THE LARGEST FISHING PORT IN PERU, Chimbote’s sea views are dotted with old boats that tell the story of this great city. In the early 19th century, Chimbote was a small fishing village with unusually fertile waters. News of the success of the resident fishermen spread quickly, and by the 1960s, it had become the center of Peru’s fishing industry. However, the tides turned, and in the 1970s, a tsunami, an earthquake and severe overfishing devastated the city. Still trying to recover from these tragedies, Chimbote struggles economically but retains its force within the fishing industry. The smell of fish in the air reminded us of the city’s rich history. Audiology professor Heather Jensen and her husband Kirk joined us. The faculty of the University of Utah audiology program has been incredibly supportive of our work. Professor Jeff Larson joined us on our most recent hearing mission in Colombia and many others, and Heather has been volunteering on hearing missions since 2003 — often bringing her students. This time her participation was personal. Her husband lived and worked in Peru more than 30 years ago. Our hearing mission was the first time Kirk had returned to Peru and the first time he joined Heather to help give the gift of hearing. For one of the hearing mission days, the people Kirk had helped years before joined us to help change lives. Gary and Julie Hammers rounded out an incredible and dedicated group of volunteers. This spirited couple brought their good-natured laughter to each patient interaction. Their infectious approach to life set the tone for the entire hearing mission.

Heather Jensen

Kirk Jensen

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Gary & Julie Hammers

September 2014

Samantha Canals

Jim Young

Barry Quinlivan

special thanks: Heather and Kirk Jensen, Gary and Julie Hammers,

Warren Brown, Stacey Trepanier, Samantha Canals, Jim Young, Todd Hedberg, Adriana Lyons, Stephanie Loccisano

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Mission: trujillo

Trujillo, Peru Our team discovers the rhythm of Peru in Trujillo. EVERY YEAR, PERUVIANS TRAVEL from across the country to take part in one of the most important cultural events in the nation, the Trujillo Marinera Festival. The marinera is the national dance of Peru, and its graceful, romantic and dramatic movements are taught to everyone from the time they can walk. As the capital of dance in Peru and home of the marinera festival, Trujillo boasts some of the best and youngest dancers in the country, and their talents were on display throughout our visit to celebrate a successful hearing mission. During the day, our team stayed focused on giving the gift of hearing and connecting patients to the music of their national dance. Maria Julia Plasencia Quinones is devoted to giving back and has become instrumental to the development of our program in Peru. Quinones coordinates our efforts on the ground, and her level of skill for the task has been amazing. Quinones is a wellconnected Rotarian, and she used her relationships to help mobilize more than 70 Rotary clubs across Peru, which in just two years, enabled us to provide more than 40,000 hearing aids and AfterCare services to thousands in need. Hoping to learn from the success and scale of the Peru program, the country coordinator for our program in the Dominican Republic, Samantha Canals, volunteered to help our team in Trujillo. She worked alongside Quinones and our team to help conduct AfterCare training for our community health care workers, ensuring that the thousands who received hearing aids will continue to benefit from the gift of hearing.

Samantha Canals

Maria Julia Plasencia Quinones

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special thanks: Heather and Kirk Jensen, Gary and Julie

Hammers, Jared Mueller, Samantha Canals, Maria Julia Plasencia Quinones, Barry Quinlivan, Santiago Camacho

September 2014

Adriana Lyons

Tammy Platt

Jared Mueller

Kevin Quinlivan

Stacey Trepanier & Stephanie Loccisano

Todd Hedberg

Ninoska Lallier, Gary Hammers & Lola Valdez

special thanks: Lola Valdez, Warren Brown, Stacey Trepanier, Ninoska Lallier, Jim Young, Stephanie Loccisano, Tammy Platt, Todd Hedberg, Adriana Lyons

Eric Barrett

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ETHIOPIA

Mission:

Population: 87.9 million

Language: Amharic

mek'ele

Mek’ele, Ethiopia Operation Change contest winner lives her life’s dream. AS A CHILD, ANGIE LIPARI DREAMED of helping change the world as a missionary nurse, but life took her other places, and she pushed her dream to the back of her mind. Then one night this summer, she sat down to enjoy an episode of Operation Change. Bill Austin’s philosophy of, “Alone we can’t do much. Together we can change the world,” inspired her, and with her childhood dream in mind, she entered a competition to join the Operation Change team in Ethiopia to help change lives with Starkey Hearing Foundation. She won! Under Bill’s guidance, Lipari learned how to help fit patients with hearing aids. With each patient she gained confidence in her abilities as she eased their nerves and watched hope spring to their eyes as the world of sound opened to them. One young man found an extra special place in her heart. The boy was blind and struggling with hearing loss, and he was being led by his best friend who was also blind but could hear. Lipari got the young man seated and assisted with the fittings … hopeful that we could connect him to life. We did! Once fit, his best friend began speaking to him and tears of joy filled his eyes — and ours. For the young man, and for Lipari, it was a dream come true.

Angie Lipari

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special thanks: Doug and Beth McMillin, Audibel Indiana Hearing, Dr. Malick Diop, Mary Nash, Dr. Teame Embaye, Hagos Godefay

October 2014

Religion:

Christian, some Muslim

Dr. Teame Embaye

special thanks: Abrahim Hassen, Dr. Yilikal Zeleke, Tigray Health Bureau, Ayder University Hospital, Angela Lipari, Lisa Hunter

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October 2014

Mission: axum

Axum, Ethiopia Our team takes a pilgrimage to the heart of Ethiopia. LOCATED IN THE HIGHLANDS of northern Ethiopia, Axum has a long and storied history, which is central to the culture of Ethiopia. From AD 100 to AD 940, the Kingdom of Axum was the most powerful state between the eastern Roman Empire and Persia. In the 4th century, Axum adopted Christianity, and according to Ethiopian legend, it is home to the Ark of the Covenant. Locals say the Ark was brought to Axum by Menelik, the offspring of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, Makeda. As Menelik reached adulthood, he traveled from Ethiopia to Jerusalem to be in his fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homeland. He stayed for three years, learning the law of Moses. When Menelik left Jerusalem, one of his sons took the Ark after dreaming that God told him to take it. Menelik was furious when he found out, but was eventually convinced it was Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s will for them to continue on with the sacred item. As they traveled back to Axum, King Solomon was told of the Ark missing and sent an army after them. The king then also had a dream from God, telling him to let the Ark go freely to Ethiopia. He withdrew his army, and the ark made its way to Axum.

Beth McMillin

Doug McMillin

Today, the Ark of the Covenant is said to be held under lock and key and heavily guarded at the Church of St. Mary of Zion. This hallowed ground is the most important church in Ethiopia and a place of pilgrimage for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians. Our team, along with our passionate sponsors Doug and Beth McMillin, took our own pilgrimage there while changing lives through the gift of hearing in Axum.

Church of St. Mary of Zion

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special thanks: Doug and Beth McMillin, Audibel Indiana Hearing, Dr. Malick

Diop, Mary Nash, Angela Lipari, Lisa Hunter, Dr. Teame Embaye, Hagos Godefay, Abrahim Hassen, Dr. Yilikal Zeleke, Tigray Health Bureau, Ayder University Hospital

Mission: admancho

Living in the Light Endrias looks to a future of hope and inspiration in the United States. ENDRIAS AND BILL AUSTIN MET IN 2012 in Endrias’ village, Admancho. Bill and our team were partnering with the Mossy Foot Project to help people suffering from mossy foot, a debilitating disease caused by walking barefoot on soil containing volcanic ash. Endrias was sick with the disease, was struggling with hearing loss and had lost both of his parents. His community shunned him because of his condition, and with no family, he lived in isolation. The story of Endrias’ illness and the life-saving assistance from Bill has been well documented in the Operation Change episode about Ethiopia. However, his incredible story did not end there. “Endrias traveled to Minnesota to surprise Bill during the 2013 Gala. He did not return to Ethiopia as planned,” said Brandon Sawalich, Senior Vice President of Starkey Hearing Technologies and Bill’s son. “Instead, he has become a part of our family and the Starkey family.” Once Endrias arrived in the United States, it became clear that he was still struggling with some health issues. Brandon and his wife, Stacy, and their children, Amelia and William, decided to welcome Endrias into their home and family, hoping to help Endrias achieve better health and a better life. Endrias is now living in Minnesota on a medical visa and hopes to eventually have his immigration status approved. He spends his days learning English, studying with a tutor, volunteering at the Foundation and focusing on his health. His unforgettable smile remains a constant reminder to everyone of the power of reflecting love and care to someone in need. He remains fully aware of how amazing his story is, saying, “I love Minnesota! I am grateful for everything. Bill is my father, he saved my life.” Speaking about the impact his intervention has had on Endrias, Bill said, “There is nothing that I can do that is more significant than helping to give someone a chance at life.” S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

CHINA

Mission:

Population: 1.36 billion

Language: Standard Chinese

Kunming, China

kunming

Our team experiences the incredible diversity of China.

Madame Siliang Tao

Joe Huff

Bridget Hilton

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

THE VIBRANT AND BUSTLING CITY of Kunming is the capitol of Yunnan province in southwestern China and serves as the most important transportation hub connecting Southeast Asia with the rest of China. Initially settled 4,000 years ago by farming ethnic minorities, Yunnan has been ruled by several different ethnic minority groups in the region, the Mongols and finally, was brought under Chinese rule by the Hongwu Emperor of the Ming Dynasty in 1381. Through all of the turmoil, each of the 56 ethnic minorities that make up the province still maintain their own language, cultural dress, religious traditions and crafts. As our team arrived in Kunming, the region’s diversity was on display, and we were met with the full support of the government, Vice President of the China Association of Mayors Madame Siliang Tao and the China Disabled Persons Federation. While Kunming is an advanced city with incredible infrastructure and a booming economy, it also has a large population of poor people with little access to hearing health care. National and local leaders welcomed our partnership once again to help make a difference in the lives of those living in Yunnan province. We brought with us some of our own powerful support. LSTN is a social enterprise that sells headphones. From inception, LSTN built into its business model its dedication to providing both high-quality products and helping to give the gift of hearing through Starkey Hearing Foundation. For every set of headphones sold, they help give someone the gift of hearing. It’s that simple. We did just that for more than 2,000 people in Kunming.

special thanks: Dennis and Leslie Hansen, ON Semiconductor, Gary Alleven, Mark Melvin, David Roy, Rosaline Wong, LSTN — Bridget Hilton, Joe Huff

Religion:

October 2014

While there is no official religion in China, Taoism and Buddhism are the most common.

Leslie Hansen

Dennis Hansen

Wayne Graetz

Todd Pinzuti

special thanks: Madame Siliang Tao and the Audiology Development

Foundation of China, Ron Harper, Patricia Russo, Sabrina Kaestle, Todd Pinzuti, Wayne Graetz, Eric N. Hagberg, Starkey China

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

Mission: chuxiong

Chuxiong, China ON Semiconductor joins the team. ACCORDING TO THE LEGENDS OF THE YI PEOPLE, a thousand years ago, a dragon terrorized the citizens of Chuxiong. Tired of the dragonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s evil ways, two warriors decided to fight the dragon and end the tyranny. The battle was epic, and the warriors forced the dragon to retreat to a lake. Once at the lake, the Yi people came together to fill the lake with mud and stone, all of them jumping and packing it down to create cement that entombed the dragon. To symbolize and celebrate this incredible victory over a great challenge, the left foot dance was born, and we would come to know it well. On the first day of our hearing mission, our team was met by local officials outside of the city and escorted to the ancient center of the town square, where everyone was set up and ready to begin. As the team worked to give more than 1,300 people the gift of hearing, we witnessed time and again small examples and variations of the left foot dance, each person celebrating their triumph over silence. Joining us in this incredible celebration was our deeply committed partner ON Semiconductor. This organization partnered with the Foundation almost from the beginning, and they always send a skilled team ready to work hard and change lives. This time the ON Semiconductor team brought their love of giving and life to the hearing mission, where they joined patients in their own version of the left foot dance. Even after the final patient was fit, the dancing continued. The local government sponsored a farewell dinner, complete with cultural entertainment.

Mark Melvin and David Roy

Rosaline Wong

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

Gary Alleven

special thanks: Dennis and Leslie Hansen, ON Semiconductor, Gary Alleven, Mark Melvin, David Roy, Rosaline Wong, LSTN â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Bridget Hilton, Joe Huff

October 2014

Dennis Hansen

Leslie Hansen

Sabrina Kaestle & Patricia Russo

Scott Canonico

special thanks: Madame Siliang Tao and the Audiology Development

Foundation of China, Ron Harper, Eric N. Hagberg, Todd Pinzuti, Wayne Graetz, Patricia Russo, Sabrina Kaestle, Starkey China

Marti Little

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

Mission:

Dali, China dali

Gala Honorees continue a lifetime of giving back. DURING THE SONG DYNASTY, Dali was the capital of the Kingdom of Dali, which was ruled by the Bai ethnic minority. Then in 1253, Kublai Khan and the Mongol Empire rode into town and forced the people of Dali under their rule, which lasted for more than 100 years. Once Dali was made a part of Yunnan during the Ming Dynasty, the capitol was moved to Kunming, and Dali settled into a quiet peace. Today, Dali is a tourist destination nestled on the banks of crystal-clear Erhai Lake, a body of water with a name that reflects its appearance — “Ear-shaped Sea.” Our team thought that name was serendipitous and set up the hearing mission just a short walk from the water. Former Gala honorees Dennis and Leslie Hansen joined us for our entire time in China but found a special place in their hearts for Dali. This incredible duo has crisscrossed the globe with us and donated more than $1 million to support the gift of hearing. In Dali their dedication, focus and considerable fitting skills helped the team provide more than 3,400 hearing aids over three days. Bill and Tani Austin were also visibly moved by the culture and tranquility of Dali. During a dinner hosted by the city government, they dressed in the traditional clothing of the Bai people to everyone’s delight.

Dennis Hansen

Leslie Hansen

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

special thanks: Dennis and Leslie Hansen, ON Semiconductor, Gary Alleven, Mark Melvin, David Roy, Rosaline Wong

October 2014

Before

After

John Hu

Pam Poferl

special thanks: Madame Siliang Tao and the Audiology Development

Foundation of China, Eric N. Hagberg, Todd Pinzuti, Wayne Graetz, Mark McClintock, John Miguez, Starkey China

Dave Dyer

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

Mission:

Lijiang, China Wrapping up an incredible trip.

lijiang

LOCATED IN THE FOOTHILLS OF THE HIMALAYAS, Lijiang offered a breathtaking backdrop for our hearing mission. Leaders from Chinese cities that hosted our past hearing missions and cities that will host our future hearing missions joined the team to report on progress and learn what is needed to build successful hearing health care programs. The team also welcomed the help of longtime friends and sponsors Mark McClintock, John Miguez and Eric Hagberg. The final patient of the hearing mission was a grandmother who lost her hearing when she was eight years old. She had not heard in more than 50 years. McClintock worked with her patiently, going through each hearing aid power level. Anxious and desperate to hear the voices of her loved ones, tears of despair began to fill her eyes as each power level failed to reach her. McClintock refused to give up. He brought in Bill Austin to help, and together they fit her with a powerful body aid, and her tears of despair turned into tears of joy. After two weeks, thousands of miles and more than 12,000 hearing aids fit, our team began to pack up and prepare for a well-deserved celebration hosted by the local government. Bill and Tani Austin took this time to discuss with Madame Siliang Tao and the dedicated Starkey China team the location of next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hearing mission, which will take place in northern China in Ningxia and Inner Mongolia.

Mark McClintock

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

During the farewell celebration, Bill noticed that the Yijiang Special Education School dance troop performing for the crowd needed hearing aids. As soon as the meal was over, he invited the entire troop back to his hotel room, where he set up shop. Still wearing their formal attire, he and Tani worked late into the night to make sure each child was connected to the world of sound.

special thanks: Dennis and Leslie Hansen, ON Semiconductor, Gary Alleven, Mark Melvin, David Roy, Rosaline Wong

October 2014

Eric N. Hagberg

John Miguez

special thanks: Madame Siliang Tao and the Audiology Development Foundation of China, Eric N. Hagberg, Mark McClintock, John Miguez, Starkey China

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

AFGHANISTAN

Mission:

Population: 31.8 million

Language: Dari (Persian) and Pashto

Kabul, Afghanistan

kabul

An American service member returns to Afghanistan to help give the gift of hearing. THERE ARE TWO U.S. MILITARY BASES IN KABUL, connected by a well-worn path where troops move peacefully between the two, often escorted by local children. The service members call these children their “guardians” and often form lasting bonds with them. While stationed in Afghanistan with the U.S. Navy, Starkey Hearing Technologies’ Keith Becker walked this path with his own guardians and saw in their eyes the promising future of a nation. When he finished his tour of duty and returned to the U.S., he swore to himself that one day he would go back to help the children of Afghanistan achieve their dreams. Starkey Hearing Foundation, in partnership with the Bayat Foundation, opened the door for Becker to keep his promise with our first hearing mission in Afghanistan. When Bill Austin asked Becker if he would like to volunteer, he jumped at the chance. While he has joined our team in the past, this hearing mission held powerful and personal significance because it gave him the opportunity to give something directly to the guardians — the children of Afghanistan.

Keith Becker

The Bayat Foundation helped us reach out to local schools to find hundreds of students struggling with hearing loss. One after another, the children sat in our chairs, received the gift of hearing and walked away with big smiles and a new sense of possibility. However, one young girl who met Becker would not walk away. As soon as she heard him say, “ba ba ba,” for the first time, she wanted to be that voice for all the other children. She spent the rest of the day working side-by-side with him, easing each child’s nerves and making her voice the first they heard. At the end of the day, Becker thanked this young leader for helping to build a bridge between our team and the students and giving us all hope for the future.

Fatema Bayat

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

Our team was surprised and inspired to see so many schoolgirls among the crowd. In Afghanistan, the closer you are in proximity to the central government, the more likely you are to find girls being educated, and with Minister of Education Ghulam Farooq Wardak and Minister of Health Dr. Suraya Dalilin in attendance, it was clear to everyone that the Afghani government was dedicated to ensuring girls a good education. Our team spent three days fitting more than 1,700 customized hearing devices to girls, boys and adults in need.

October 2014

Religion: Islam

Ehsan Bayat Brady Forseth

Ali Kazemi Ali

Maria Ali

Hamid Rahin

special thanks: Bayat Foundation â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Ehsan and Fatema Bayat, Dr. Robert Dean, Barry Quinlivan

Brendan O'Gorman

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

Mission:

KENYA

Population: 45 million

Languages: English, Swahili

kibera

Kibera, Kenya Providing hope and hearing. LOCATED A MERE THREE MILES outside of Nairobi, the slums of Kibera are home to over 1 million. Tinroofed shacks and red dirt roads span as far as the eye can see. The hearing mission and community-based hearing training took place amidst the hustle and bustle of the Kibera community. Sounds of pounding metal, friends chatting and loud bass music filled the air. Although Kibera is one of the poorest places on earth, the patients and their families were all laughter and smiles. Once the last patient was fit, we packed our gear and looked out at the vast community. It felt as if we had joined the spirit and energy of the incredible landscape around us. We loaded up and began our journey out of Kibera as the sun set, watching the last orange African rays of the day bounce off the tin roof settlements. The joyous spirit and unique energy of Kiberaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s people will stay with the team until our next visit.

Dave Fabry

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

Religion:

October 2014

Christian, some Muslim

Bruce Le

Chris DiCapo

John Yuccas

Michelle Hoffman

Kristina Mendoza

Dr. Teame Embaye

Bill Noel

special thanks: University of Nairobi, Operation Eardrop, Shining Hope for Communities

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

Mission: kitale

lodwar malindi

Lodwar, Kitale, Malindi, Kenya Bringing hearing to local students. AFTER KIBERA, WE TRAVELED to Lodwar, Kitale and Malindi to give the gift of hearing to more than 1,300 patients. Lodwar is in the northwest corner of Kenya and known for its high temperatures and a desert environment near the shores of Lake Turkana. It is also home to St. Benedict’s School for the Deaf, the site of our hearing mission. Whenever we provide the gift of hearing in schools, we work with the teachers to identify young leaders to serve as student ambassadors. These ambassadors are fit first so they can work with us throughout the day, receiving extra training and helping us fit their schoolmates. As mentors to their peers, ambassadors provide incredible support to ensure sustainable hearing skills for the future, and we were fortunate to have many of them at St. Benedict’s. Bill Austin believes that everyone should have access to the connecting power of hearing, and in Kitale, we put that belief into action. A busload of 23 prisoners arrived, and we did what we do best — reflected caring through hearing. After the fittings, Tani Austin presented each of them with “hearing champion” medals and made them promise to do some good in the world. The team spent Halloween in Malindi, located on the Indian Ocean with aqua blue water and white sand beaches, and held the fittings at a primary school. We provided the gift of hearing to hundreds, shared candy and laughs, and trained new student ambassadors. We concluded with a celebratory dinner complete with Halloween costumes, dancing and gourmet pizzas made by Tony Garcia, our data analyst. Each city brought a unique experience, but the happiness and joy of the patients and team was felt throughout the journey. 40

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

October 2014

Michelle Hoffman

Kristina Mendoza

Bruce Le

special thanks: University of Nairobi, Operation Eardrop

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

TANZANIA

Mission: mwanza kigoma

dar es salaam

Population: 47.4 million

Languages: Swahili, English

Dar es Salaam, Kigoma, Mwanza, Tanzania Changing lives in Tanzania. DAR ES SALAAM IS EAST AFRICA’S LARGEST CITY and a major economic hub. Our hearing mission took place at a downtown hotel. Vice President of Tanzania Dr. Mohamed Gharib Bilal joined us to honor Bill and Tani Austin with a gift of hand carved rhinos in honor of all they have done to help the Tanzanian people over the years. After the ceremony, the vice president stayed to help us give the gift of hearing to local students. One student was so excited, he told Starkey Hearing Technologies’ Stuart Johnson, “I must be dreaming. I’m hearing voices.” In addition to seeing new patients, the team also provided AfterCare services to hundreds of people fit on previous missions, ensuring they continue to benefit from the gift of hearing.

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Gharib Bilal

After serving more than 1,500 patients in Dar es Salaam, we traveled to Kigoma for the first time. Kigoma translates to “end of the line” and it’s the final stop for the westbound train on the breathtaking shores of Lake Tanganyika, the longest lake in the world. A vista above the lake made for a beautiful fitting site, which was made even better by the outpouring of gratitude and excitement we received from the patients.

Luke Pankratz

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

The next stop was Mwanza, located on Lake Victoria, the world’s second largest lake by area (Lake Superior being the largest). The incredible shoreline fitting site even included an African fish eagle that curiously watched over the team’s work. A powerful storm overtook the fitting site, damaging some of the structures after the first day, but with a lot of teamwork, the site was ready for patients the next morning, ensuring a successful finish.

Religions:

November 2014

Muslim, Christian

Heather Pearson

John Sheehan

Stuart Johnson

special thanks: Mnazi Mmoja Hospital, Rotary Club of Dar es Salaam, Serena Hotel, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Society for the Deaf, Kigoma Hilltop Hotel, Royal Orchid Malaika Beach Resort, Sekou Toure Hospital

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

Mission: arusha

moshi

Moshi, Arusha, Tanzania A stunning setting. WE ARRIVED IN MOSHI in complete darkness. After the bags were unloaded, we began the hourlong drive to the hotel and could see a glowing white beacon in the distance. That beacon turned out to be Mount Kilimanjaro free of cloud cover in the moonlight — a truly rare and beautiful sight. Overnight rains made the fitting site a muddy mess, but our partners at the Lions Club of Moshi acted quickly, bringing in sawdust to keep the mud in check and the gear clean. They helped us fit hundreds of new patients from local schools and provide AfterCare services to existing patients throughout the visit.

Peter Hutchison

After wrapping up our time in Moshi, we headed to Arusha on the other side of the mountain where hundreds waited to receive the gift of hearing. Perhaps the biggest surprise of the trip came late on the last day. Just as the final patients were being fit an elderly man arrived on the back of a motorcycle. The high-spirited, 83-year-old man had needed hearing aids for years, but his family was unable to pay for his treatment. Fortunately, his son learned we were in Arusha as the mission was taking place. Hoping this could be the answer to the family’s prayers, he commissioned a motorcyclist from a neighboring town to drive him and his father to the mission site — arriving just in time. The elderly Maasai warrior’s ears had no concha bowls and required specialized support from Bill Austin. Bill found the perfect molds, restoring the man’s hearing and making his remarkable last-minute trip a success.

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

November 2014

Courtney Matthews

Stuart Johnson

Heather Pearson

Luke Pankratz

Vanessa Boys Smith

special thanks: Teddy Mapunda, Montage, Vinay Choudary, Spicenet, Kibo Palace Hotel, Lions Club of Moshi, Rotary Club of Arusha,The Shree Hindu Mandal Temple

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

Mission:

loibosoit

Loibosoit, Tanzania Reuniting with old friends. LOIBOSOIT IS A MAASAI VILLAGE located a couple of hours from Arusha. As you make the drive through the countryside, every few kilometers you can see someone in the distance, usually wearing a traditional Maasai shuka guiding a herd of livestock through the environment. Starkey Hearing Foundation has a rich history with the village of Loibosoit. Two years ago Bill Austin started working with the Maasai community to build new strategically located schools so the children would have a chance to receive an education. He also partnered with World Serve International and Pentair to install wells at each school that would give access to clean water. The community came out en masse to greet us and performed traditional songs to show their appreciation and friendship. David Furnish, Chairman of the Elton John AIDS Foundation, joined the team and all were given a tour of one of the schools. In a gesture of thanks, a government official unveiled a commemorative plaque for the school’s dedication. After the dedication, the Maasai held a ceremony honoring Bill Austin and Starkey Hearing Foundation. Bill sat on a traditional Maasai chair — a symbol of honor — and gifts were presented to the entire team to recognize their ongoing help in Loibosoit. Audiology student Peter Hutchison also joined the team in Tanzania, along with his friend Courtney Matthews. He was an Operation Change trip winner, and he put his skills to good use in Loibosoit, helping us change the lives of the Maasai through hearing.

David Furnish

After a great day of fittings, we left knowing we have built lifelong bonds with the community.

Peter Hutchison

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

November 2014

special thanks: WorldServe International — John Bongiorno and Doug Pitt, Elton John AIDS Foundation — David Furnish, Alais Ndooki, Peter Hutchison, Courtney Matthews

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

Mission:

harare

Harare, Zimbabwe Reaching young people in need. THE TEAM WAS JOINED IN HARARE, Zimbabwe by David Furnish, chairman of the Elton John AIDS Foundation. After our Zimbabwe hearing mission, we visited a project we helped fund with AfricAid, an organization that supports girls’ education to provide young women with the opportunity to transform their own lives and their communities. The project is a peer-to-peer mentoring program for young people living with HIV/AIDS — similar to Big Brother/Big Sister-type programs here in the United States. It’s created and led by young leaders, and they teach other young people about living with the disease. The program emphasizes training on the importance of ARVs — how and why to take them — and the importance of stopping the spread of the disease. Like with our Student Ambassador program, young people seem much more willing to learn from their peers, rather than adults. The program is seeing much success, including a reduction in young mothers spreading HIV/AIDS onto their children. Of course there are people with hearing loss wherever we go, so while visiting the project we also provided the gift of hearing. 48

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

ZIMBABWE

Population: 13.1 million

Languages:

English, Shona and Ndebele (16 total official languages)

November 2014

Religion: Christian

David Furnish

special thanks: Elton John AIDS Foundation â&#x20AC;&#x201D; David Furnish

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

Mission:

SRI LANKA

Population: 32.2 million

Languages: Sinhala, Tamil

colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka Our first Sri Lanka hearing mission. IT TAKES INCREDIBLE PARTNERSHIPS to help us move into a new country. In the case of Novemberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Colombo, Sri Lanka mission, it was a new partnership with Synergen Health founders Mel and Duminda Gunawardena. After attending the Gala, the Gunawardena brothers were inspired to bring the gift of hearing to their home country of Sri Lanka. The first hearing mission included another special partnership â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the Sri Lankan Army. In addition to providing the fitting site at the local air force grounds, the army assisted with transporting patients from cities around the country. Many patients lost their hearing during the recent civil war that lasted for more than 15 years. Emotions ran high as patients told stories of the impact of the war on their lives. We listened closely as we helped the appreciative patients and their families. Through drenching rains each afternoon, we worked hard to help all who had made the journey. By the end of the last day, nearly 2,000 Sri Lankan patients had their hearing restored. Retired NFL player Sidney Rice and actress Josie Bissett also joined the team, helping us change lives. It may have been our first hearing mission in Sri Lanka, but it will not be our last. Because of hard work and strong partnerships, an incredible team is now in place to build a sustainable system of care for years to come. 50

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

Sidney Rice

Josie Bissett

November 2014

Religion: Buddhism

Mark and Jennifer Adams

Synergen Health

Ret and Caren Templet

Joyce Scott

special thanks: Synergen Health, Vision Care, Sri Lanka Army, Sidney Rice, Josie Bissett, Ret and Caren Templet, Mark and Jennifer Adams, Michelle and Joyce Scott, LSTN â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Bridget Hilton, Joe Huff, Starkey India

Michelle Scott

Sam Ly

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

Sidney Rice

Josie Bissett

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

Ret Templet

Jennifer Adams

Bridget Hilton

Joe Barta

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

Mission:

puerto princesa

PHILIPPINES

Population: 100.6 million

Languages: Filipino, English

Puerto Princesa, Philippines Reconnecting a family through music. WHILE WE HAVE BEEN GIVING THE GIFT of hearing in the Philippines for years, we visited Puerto Princesa for the first time in November. Located on the island of Palawan, Puerto Princesa is home to one of the Seven New Wonders of Nature — the Underground River, an 8.2-kilometer cave system that flows to the sea. We had amazing support for our first visit from Mayor Lucilo Bayron, Dr. Cecilio Pedro, CEO of Lamoiyan Corporation, DEAF Inc. and JCI Palawan. In order to encourage people in need of help to come forward, Mayor Bayron even had his hearing tested — fortunately, he had normal hearing. While we fit more than 900 people during the visit, one in particular stood out. Isagani Santa Ana lost his hearing at age five and could still remember what it was like to hear. He helped organize the mission and his wife, Sarah, is one of our local hearing care coordinators. Their three children are musicians. Bill Austin fit Isagani with hearing aids, and at a ceremonial dinner that evening, Sarah was overcome by emotion when introducing her husband to the audience. After Isagani spoke, thanking Bill for giving him a precious gift, he received another. He and Sarah were able to listen to their children perform together — hearing the music.

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

November 2014

Religion:

Roman Catholic

Carrie Simon

Catalina Laverde

Mike Dalton

Kerry Steib

Kristy Larson

Simon Areblom

Lori Bunkholt

special thanks: University of Santo Tomas, Honorable Mayor Lucilo Bayron, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan Dr. Cecilio Pedro, CEO, Lamoiyan Corporation, DEAF Inc., Rotary Club of Palawan, JCI of Palawan

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

Mission:

general santos

General Santos, Philippines Cheering on a local legend. LOCATED IN THE MOST SOUTHERN PART of the Philippines, General Santos is primarily known as “The Tuna Capital of the Philippines” and home to professional boxer Manny Pacquiao. The mission in General Santos happened to fall on the same day that Pacquiao was fighting for the WBO Welterweight Championship title, and the team was invited to watch the fight on television alongside the people of General Santos in the Lagao Gymnasium. The thousands of spectators were elated as Pacquiao defended his title and emerged victorious. As the spectators began to file out after the fight, the team went to work preparing the gymnasium to fit more than 600 people. We were assisted by generous volunteers from the General Santos Doctors’ Hospital of Sarangani, as well as a few special guests from the local government, including Governor Steve Solon and Vice Governor Jinkee Pacquiao — wife of the boxing champion.

Vice Governor Jinkee Pacquiao and Governor Steve Solon

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

The mission concluded with a celebratory dinner, which included great speeches from government officials, our local partners, Starkey Hearing Foundation Board President Richard Brown and Bill Austin. The night concluded with traditional dances and, of course, some famous General Santos tuna.

special thanks: Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon, Sarangani Province, Vice

Governor Jinkee Pacquiao, Sarangani Province, Congressman Manny Pacquiao, Sarangani Province, Mayor Ronnel Rivera, General Santos City, Congressman Reynaldo Uy

November 2014

Vice Governor Jinkee Pacquiao

Jennifer Evans

special thanks: Cagayan De Oro City, Governor Daisy Avance-Fuentes, South Cotobato,

Mayor Peter Miguel, Koronadal City, General Santos Doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital, SOCSARGEN Technical Working Group, Dr. Cesar Yabut, ENT, Dr. Daniel Yap, Asma Akmad, Harold Aponesto, Joshua Asuela

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

Mission: lipa city

Lipa City, Philippines A Thanksgiving hearing mission. TWO HOURS SOUTH OF MANILA, nestled between Mount Malarayat and Mount Makulot lies the lush green valley that is home to Lipa City. The team arrived the day before Thanksgiving and immediately got to work preparing for the next day’s mission. Longtime Starkey Hearing Foundation sponsor and supporter Ninez Arreglado assisted the team by coordinating volunteer logistics, including taking all volunteers on a “patient journey” simulation to give them the opportunity to experience the process firsthand. That evening, the team was treated to a Thanksgiving feast at the home of long-time supporter and ENT surgeon Dr. Norby Martinez. On Thanksgiving Day we fitted hundreds of patients. As we reflected on the meaning of the holiday, the team felt a special sense of gratitude for their ability to change the lives of so many people. Bill Austin concluded the impactful day by sharing his Thanksgiving thoughts, stating, “The best way to give thanks for the life we’ve had and the opportunities we’ve had is to give someone else a chance.”

Ninez Arreglado

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

November 2014

special thanks: University of Santo Tomas, Ninez and Bill Schiffmiller, Mitos Villa, AKOIO, Rotary Club of Lipa City, JCI Lipa, AYNLA, Batangas, Red Cross Batangas Chapter, Parish Social Action â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Lipa, Lipa City Colleges, Patsie Leviste

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

Mission: manila

Manila, Philippines Jessica Sanchez joins the team. WE HAVE BUILT A RICH RELATIONSHIP with the city of Manila — the capital of the Philippines and one of the most densely populated cities in the world. The tropical city is warm and humid with a stunning skyline and a beautiful harbor.

Jessica Sanchez

We are always excited to return to Manila, but this visit was even more special because our friend and recording artist Jessica Sanchez joined us once again. Sanchez is half Filipina and has a huge fan base in the Philippines. Prior to the hearing mission, she announced that she was donating the proceeds from her new single, “This Love,” to support the gift of hearing. We fit more than 600 people per day in Manila, but one returning patient really stood out to us. Euner Batlan received his first-ever hearing aids two years ago and left that mission with a new outlook on life. On our return visits he has come for AfterCare services and also to volunteer his time to help. Before this mission, Euner was in a serious motorcycle accident that left him hospitalized and broke his hearing aids. Bill Austin personally fit him once again and restored his hearing, leaving him incredibly grateful and happy.

Evelyn Bugay Cuevas and Edita Bugay Sanchez

Iza Calzado

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

Euner Batlan

special thanks: University of Santo Tomas, UST Simbahayan, Colegio De San Juan De Letran, TaosPuso Foundation, Medical Missions Inc., Bahay Bata 127, Dr. Norberto Martinez

November 2014

Sarah Gooder

special thanks: Dr. Salve Olalia, Dr. Robert Ang, Brother Ramon Moreno, Jessica Sanchez, Edita Sanchez, Rev. Fr. Boyd R. Sulpico, O.P., Lani Chua, Pastor Joe Mcgourn, Ana Dizon

S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

Mission: kampala

UGANDA

Population: 36.8 million

Languages: English, Swahili

Kampala, Uganda The president lends a hand. AFTER THE PHILIPPINES, THE TEAM HEADED west to Uganda. Over the course of many years working in the country, we have garnered strong support for our work, including support from the highest levels of government. On our first day, we held a mission in the city under the canopy of a tent and some tall trees that also served as the home to fruit bats … thousands of them! Every so often the bats would leave the trees crying out — bats are blind and use radar to find their way. They didn’t bother the patients or the team, however. In fact, they further emphasized the importance of hearing. The next day we drove about two hours outside of Kampala to a new hearing mission site, where the government was hosting a ceremony in honor of the International Day of People with Disabilities. Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni had invited us and wanted the chance to see our work in action. Bill Austin walked him through the fitting process, and it was the perfect day for the team to share Bill’s belief that “there is no such thing as disability — only ability.”

President Yoweri Museveni

While there were many memorable stories, six-yearold Jennifer really made the team smile. She had incredible energy and was filled with joy, but her relentless smile made it difficult to find the right fit for her. However, Bill knew what to do. She left exactly as she arrived — smiling from ear-to-ear — but now, she can hear all the joy she brings to the world.

Laura Joseph

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Religion: Christian

special thanks: President Yoweri Museveni, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development

December 2014

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Mission:

soweto

SOUTH AFRICA

Population: 54 million

Language:

11 official languages, mainly English, Zulu, Xhosa and Afrikaans

South Africa Partners and friends help us close out a great year. TO CLOSE OUT AN AMAZING RUN across nine countries over nearly 11 weeks, the team traveled to South Africa for hearing missions in Soweto and Lenasia, located outside of Johannesburg. We have been working in South Africa for many years and have great partners in Leigh Kassner and Medifix Hearing Systems. In Soweto, a team from Virgin Unite also joined us. We work with Virgin Unite at their clinic in Bhubezi, so it was wonderful to have them participate elsewhere in South Africa.

Martin McGrath

Ana Cruz-McGrath and her husband Martin joined us as well. Like Angie Lipari and Peter Hutchison, McGrath won the opportunity to join the team on a hearing mission through Operation Change. With a background in nonprofit work, Cruz-McGrath quickly grasped Bill Austin’s philosophy: “Alone we can’t do much. Together we can change the world.” Working closely with the team, one of the McGrath’s first patients was a man named Joseph. He had been struggling with hearing loss since 1980, and his wife, Valentine, shared how difficult it was for them to communicate. She looked on hopefully throughout the fitting process, and we didn’t disappoint! Ana and Martin helped reconnect another husband and wife who had been struggling to communicate for more than three decades. There was laughter, hugs and tears of joy all around. Before Joseph and Valentine left, they returned for one more hug and to tell us they loved us. We wrapped up in Lenasia, and the 11-week run ended the way it began — with a changed life. With most of the team already gone and the gear packed away, 93-year-old Mahomed arrived to the site. He kept saying how he couldn’t hear anything and no one wanted to help him … he hadn’t met Bill Austin. Bill had the team unpack the gear and worked with the man to find the perfect fit. Mahomed left reconnected to the world of sound and with the knowledge that there are people that truly care about him.

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December 2014

Religion: Christian

Heather Jensen

Lindsay Banks

Dennis VanVliet

Ana Cruz-McGrath with Joseph and Valentine

Leigh Kassner

93-year-old Mahomed

special thanks: Medifix Hearing Systems, Virgin Unite â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Sir Richard Branson, Lindsey Banks, Wesley Banks, Ana Cruz-McGrath, Martin McGrath

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MINNESOTA

Mission:

Highest Temp on Record: 114 degrees Fahrenheit recorded on July 6, 1936

Lowest Temp on Record: -60 degrees Fahrenheit recorded on February 2, 1996

eden prairie

Minnesota Vikings Mission Hometown hearing mission with the Vikings. AFTER SEVERAL MONTHS TRAVELING around the globe, the team was back home for the second annual hearing mission with the Minnesota Vikings. We’ve seen incredible support from the Vikings over the years — from the players, to the administration, to the ownership — and once again they didn’t disappoint. Long-time supporter Greg Jennings was joined by Harrison Smith, Jasper Brinkley, Charles Johnson, Adam Thielen and Ben Tate to help children and adults in need. Viktor the Viking, the Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders and former Vikings Matt Blair, Stu Vogit, Joey Browner and Jack Brewer also joined in the fun. Blair even brought fellow Viking alumnus Dave Osborne, who had been struggling with hearing loss, to receive the gift of hearing.

Jose Junior

The day also marked a reunion for Bill Austin with a family he’s known across a decade, two countries and three generations. Jose Wilfredo Amaya moved to the U.S. from Honduras in 1994 with his wife. They had four children, including one, Jose Junior, who struggles with hearing loss. Having no access to help, the Amayas enrolled Jose Junior in a school that focused on manual communication, but when they heard about the Foundation, they brought him to see Bill for help. He was first fit at age five and started learning speech. Jose Junior is now a 15-year-old sophomore who plays varsity football, speaks fluent English and does well in the classroom. He came in to see everyone, receive follow-up care and meet the Vikings. Bill also fit him with a new set of hearing aids that will help him communicate as successfully on the football field as in the classroom.

Matt Blair and Jasper Brinkley

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Jose Junior isn’t the only Amaya family member to receive the Foundation’s help over the years, however. In 2013, Bill fit Jose Antonio, Jose Junior’s grandfather, during our hearing mission in Honduras. No matter where they may be in the world, we will continue to ensure this family stays connected for years to come.

Vikings first season: 1961 season

December 2014

Vikings first NFL Championship: 1969 season

Greg Jennings

Matt Blair, Jasper Brinkley and Joey Browner

Adam Thielen, Charles Johnson and Ben Tate III

Harrison Smith

special thanks: Minnesota Vikings, Jasper Brinkley, Stu Voigt, Joey

Browner, Dave Osborn, Adam Thielen, Charles Johnson, Greg Jennings, Ben Tate, Matt Blair, Harrison Smith, Delta Zeta

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TRAINING THE LEADERS

Our community-based hearing health care training empowers local teams to develop sustainable systems of care.

Starkey Hearing Technologies’ Bill Noel has spent much of his career training Americans to become licensed hearing aid dispensers. He understands better than almost anyone the knowledge and skills needed to fit hearing aids. However, in the fall of 2013, Tani Austin brought him a new challenge. To ensure the long-term benefit of our services, Starkey Hearing Foundation has been growing our communitybased hearing health care program. The goal of this program is to empower local teams of community health care workers to identify potential hearing aid candidates and fit them with hearing aids and customized earmolds, while also providing access to follow-up care through our AfterCare program. We have community-based hearing health care programs in more than 30 countries, and developing the skills of our local workers is critical to their success. We have conducted effective trainings on a smaller scale, but when Austin approached Noel, she wanted him to help her grow the training to another level. “In many of our program countries, our community health care workers have a broad range of different skills,” said Austin. “We needed something that would help standardize what we were doing and give these workers an opportunity to come together to share experiences and lessons learned. I felt confident that Bill Noel’s depth of knowledge and training experience could help us bring it all together.” Austin scheduled the largest ever community-based hearing health care training in Nairobi, Kenya for October 2014, and with Noel’s help, she began developing the curriculum. Immediately, their 68

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challenges became evident. “We were designing the training around what a hearing specialist would need to know. However, we were not training them to be hearing specialists in the traditional sense,” said Noel. “We were training them to identify patients, take impressions and conduct AfterCare without all of the resources a traditional hearing specialist would have.” As a result, Noel developed a curriculum that would go in depth in the specific areas the community health care workers would need to fully understand: • Anatomy of the ear • Otoscopy • Audiometry • Ear impression taking • Hearing aid fitting • Hearing aid counseling and troubleshooting For more than a year, Austin and Noel continued to draft, re-draft and refine the training. In October, Noel arrived in Nairobi to prepare. He sat in on training the hearing mission team was conducting with school proprietors and teachers on effective use of hearing aids in the classroom. He noticed the team was using a repetitive and interactive style that adapted to cultural differences and ensured the students were absorbing the material. With this in mind, he reworked the classroom methodology to allow for more interaction and activities to reinforce the material. Then it all came together. More than 40 community health care workers from 14 different countries including Kenya, Rwanda, Malawi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania,

Bill Noel

Lesotho, Madagascar, Uganda, Ethiopia, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Burundi and India convened in Nairobi for three days of intense training that included a small hearing mission practicum. The room was filled with Foundation country coordinators and hearing care coordinators, all motivated and excited to learn. A group of otolaryngologists acting as program advisors also added to the knowledge in the room. The classes were animated and interactive as the students dug into the material. Noel found special joy in challenging the students with questions and watching them quickly

snap back with the answers. At the end, they took a test, all passing and receiving certificates of completion. After the success of this effort, a similar training was conducted in Mexico and more are planned for the future. The impact is already being felt. The workers are taking ownership over hearing health care in their own communities, and our program is growing stronger and more sustainable.

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WOMEN LEAD THE WAY

The heart and soul of our community-based hearing health care program are women.

In the developing world, women are some of our most valuable advocates and agents for change. With a powerful focus on family and their communities, many dedicate themselves to improving gender equality and building a better tomorrow, which includes access to hearing health care. Across the globe, our Starkey Hearing Foundation team and local teams of community-based hearing health care workers are often led by some of the best and the brightest women the world has to offer. Here are just a few. 70

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TANI AUSTIN

Co-Founder and Director at Large

Without Tani Austin, our threephase continuous action model, which has become the roadmap for our entire program, would not exist. It is the embodiment of her incredible vision.

VANESSA BOYS SMITH

Director of Sustainability

Vanessa Boys Smith ensures the overall effectiveness of our three-phase, continuous action model and the long-term sustainability of our efforts around the world.

SALVE OLALIA, M.D., AUD

Philippines Program Advisor

From the beginning of our work in the Philippines, Salve Olalia has been on the team. Newly retired from her position as Director of University of Santo Tomas Health Service Center, she is now free to devote her time to the AfterCare program she was instrumental in establishing.

AREINA SEAY

Director of International Hearing Missions

Areina Seay dedicates herself to the details of each country program by ensuring local teams have the resources they need to be effective.

KAITESI BATAMULIZA MUKARA, M. D . , AUD Rwanda Program Advisor

Kaitesi Batamuliza Mukara is an ENT and one of only three audiologists in all of Rwanda. She is dedicated to promoting prevention in hearing health care and oversees our entire Rwanda AfterCare program in Kigali at CHUK Hospital.

DIOP DOYNECK, M.D.

Senegal Country Coordinator

Diop Doyneck has the incredible distinction of being the most hands-on of all of our community hearing health workers. She is an ENT at FANN Hospital where she also leads our AfterCare team, regularly seeing our patients while she works.

JENNIFER EVANS

Manager of International Programs

After honing her skills fitting hearing aids and training thousands of patients on their use and care, Jennifer Evans now travels the globe training and supporting our community hearing health care workers.

SAMANTHA CANALS

Dominican Republic Country Coordinator

Samantha Canals is one of the pioneers of our AfterCare program. She is the first to jump at a chance to try or pilot any new offerings. As a hearing aid dispenser, she runs an AfterCare program out of her office in Santo Domingo.

SCALING THE GIFT OF HEARING Bill Austin’s fitting method brings simplicity and sustainability to hearing health care. by Dave Fabry, Ph.D. When faced with limited resources and health care infrastructure in developing countries, Starkey Hearing Foundation found a way to treat hearing loss for thousands in need. In the wake of World War II, many soldiers returned home to the United States with hearing loss. While working to help these young men, Raymond T. Carhart, a pioneer of audiology, developed a way to fit hearing aids that engaged the patient directly in the fitting process and emphasized speech understanding. This approach, the comparative fitting method, was incredibly effective because the predominant style of hearing aids at the time were body aids or behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids. Utilizers of this method were able to keep these devices in stock, so they could try several different types and power levels in one fitting while they tested for behavior responses and asked the patient how the hearing aids felt. Around the same time, Samuel Lybarger, an engineer and inventor, began using audiograms to determine hearing aid fit. Audiograms were originally developed as a pre- and post-test indicator for surgical outcomes, but Lybarger began to use them to determine best possible hearing aid fit based on the “half-gain” fitting rule: at a particular frequency, the requisite amount of gain corresponds to one-half of the hearing loss, in dB. This ultimately became the basis for the “prescriptive” fitting method. 72

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Audiologists and hearing device specialists used the comparative and prescriptive fitting methods in parallel until the 1970s, when custom hearing aids became the predominant style. Because clinicians no longer had hearing aids in stock, the prescriptive fitting method, which relies on audiograms rather than stock hearing aids, became the fitting method of choice. However, in order to produce an audiogram, a clinician needs access to a sound booth, computers, years of training and electricity. In industrialized nations, we have reliable access to these things, but the same cannot be said for many of the countries Starkey Hearing Foundation serves. When trying to reach the hundreds of thousands of people struggling with hearing loss in developing nations, more often than not, an audiogram is simply not possible. Many of these countries do not have a single audiologist, let alone the equipment needed to produce an audiogram. Globally, 80 percent of patients with hearing loss live in areas where they do not have access to a clinician. Regardless, we still want to give them the opportunity to hear, and we found a way to do that — the WideFrequency Audibility (WFA) Fitting Method. Created and developed by Bill Austin, the WFA Fitting Method found its roots in Carhart’s comparative fitting method. Austin adapted the comparative fitting method to suit any culture, language and environment, in order to make it effective in the field.

Dave Fabry

The WFA Fitting Method focuses on three key areas: 1. Audibility 2. Loudness comfort 3. Binaural balance, or the balance of amplification between two ears During the fitting process, our team has access to 10 different power levels of hearing aids. We start with the lowest level and work our way up to find the correct fit. Once the correct fit is found, our team teaches the patient how to adjust the volume of the hearing aids to suit his/ her needs. We also give each access to our AfterCare team to assist with any issues after we leave.

Because of the simplicity of the WFA Fitting Method, we have successfully scaled our programs to meet the needs of tens of thousands of patients each year. When we hold a hearing mission in the Kibera slum near Nairobi, the jungles of Peru, the tribal villages of the Kenyan Maasai or any of the incredible places we visit each year, no one is turned away without providing them with the opportunity to benefit from amplification. Fundamentally, this is the same goal that we all want, regardless of practice location. The ability to scale the gift of hearing provides that opportunity to everyone, and is the essential first step towards developing a sustainable, communitybased hearing health care model of care.

About the Author Dave Fabry, Ph.D., is the Vice President of Audiology & Professional Relations at Starkey Hearing Technologies and a frequent volunteer on Starkey Hearing Foundation hearing missions. He holds a Ph.D. in audiology from the University of Minnesota. His professional experience includes positions as a Research Audiologist at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Chief of Audiology at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., and Chief of Audiology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Fabry is a prolific writer, having served as an Associate Editor for Ear and Hearing, Editor of American Journal of Audiology, Associate Editor for Audiology Online and Editor of Audiology Today. He has published more than 50 articles in peer-reviewed journals. Fabry has presented widely in the U.S. and internationally and has served as a board member and president of the American Academy of Audiology, from which he received the Distinguished Service Award in 2009. S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

ENSURING CONTINUED SUPPORT

Fueling change with the Argyros Family Foundation. When we invited the Argyros family to join our hearing mission in Mexico last fall, our goals were to thank them for their support and let them experience firsthand what it means to give someone the gift of hearing. After working with our team for four days, all three generations of the Argyros family agreed that our work is changing lives. “As we witnessed the level of impact Starkey Hearing Foundation was having on the local community, I think we all understood how vital the gift of hearing is to helping an individual realize his or her potential,” says Stephanie Argyros. “Being able to work side by side with my parents and children as part of Starkey’s team in La Paz is something I will always cherish.” Upon their return, Stephanie and her family took time to learn more about our efforts to develop communitybased systems of hearing health care. What stood out, Stephanie says, was our AfterCare program, which provides international patients ongoing access to 74

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care, including additional counseling, batteries and services to replace or repair hearing aids and earmolds. Subsequently, the Argyros Family Foundation elected to present us with a gift of $1 million to develop and expand AfterCare around the globe. “This is a perfect fit for The Argyros Family Foundation, because we focus our support on health care, children, education, and the arts,” explains Stephanie. “We know the gift of hearing has the power to transform the lives of individuals, families and even entire communities, and we want to help ensure that AfterCare’s impact is sustainable and far reaching.” The Argyros Family Foundation’s generous donation will help us carry AfterCare into the future and ensure long-term sustainability. We are grateful for the Argyros family’s vision and for this tremendous support in bringing extended hearing health care to thousands of people, worldwide.

Bill and Tani Austin and Steven and Trevi Sawalich accepting a generous gift from the Argyros Family Foundation

Stephanie Argyros

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George and Julia Argyros

OKELLO SAM devotes his life to healing the unseen wounds of war.

Firsthand

A Place of Peace Former child soldier Okello Sam has dedicated his life to educating and healing the young victims of Uganda’s civil war. After living through and overcoming his own abduction and the death of his brother at the hands of Joseph Kony’s Lord’s Resistance Army, Sam created Hope North, a safe place just beyond the war zone where children affected by the violence can come to heal. Starkey Hearing Foundation partners closely with Sam and Hope North to give these children back the gift of hearing and help them develop the connections needed to build a peaceful future. During a recent visit to our headquarters in Minnesota, Sam sat down with the team to talk about the impact of his work and the gift of hearing. How were you first introduced to Starkey Hearing Foundation? I was introduced to Starkey Hearing Foundation through Forest Whitaker. He told me the Foundation was coming to Uganda for a hearing mission. In our school at Hope North, we have many challenges with children struggling with hearing loss often caused by exposure to explosives from war or lack of access to medical care. So, when Starkey came to Uganda, we had them fit more than 50 of our kids who had hearing problems. What was life like for the 50 children with hearing loss, before Starkey Hearing Foundation fit them with hearing aids? I think when you see the reaction on the kids’ faces, you realize how miserable they have been over the years and how unaware of their environments they have been. The good thing with Starkey Hearing Foundation’s hearing mission is the impact is instantaneous — you see the privilege, advantage and greatness immediately. You see in the faces of the kids that they have really been suffering and unaware of all they were missing, and all of a sudden, everything is complete. Everything is full. Everything is real. They test it. They feel it. They hear it. That … I don’t know how to explain that. It’s something that is precious. What kind of improvements do see in the children from the time they are fit to when they are seen in AfterCare? They improve academically. You see their grades skyrocket. You see their attitude change 76 S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

completely. They begin to appreciate everything. They begin to appreciate life. They begin to contribute to discussions. They get involved in activities. They get their life back. These are kids who used to sit in isolation. You see them now, and they want to be a part of everything. Their life completely changes. They become children. They begin to do the things that every child should do. What do you think it means for children coming from a place of conflict and violence to get their hearing back? It means a lot to them because they know what they lost. It took a while for most of them to get it back. A lot of them had lost hope, and to see them regain the hope they lost is tremendous. I believe the impact of the gift of hearing is a trinity: 1. For a child who has been psychologically tortured because he has lost his hearing, the hearing aids are a therapy. They allow him to rediscover himself. 2. The child now begins to participate fully in activities, which is in itself a healing process. 3. The child will make a contribution based on the capacity that he has, and he now has a new capacity. The child can make better contributions. What is your greatest joy in your work at Hope North? I see people realizing that they can rediscover themselves. I see people transform. I find great joy in having the opportunity to protect children and give them the opportunity to lead a better life. I have been able to create a space where children can be safe, educated and allowed to progress. What advice would you give a young person looking to have an impact on the world? Every single person has the capacity to do good. Nothing is little — every small contribution means a lot. It is these molecular contributions that make one big contribution. You don’t have to make your contribution in the big world — contribute to your neighbor, to your mom, to your dad, to your brothers and sisters. It is from that, that we will build a better world.

“ Every single person has the capacity to do good. Nothing is little — every small contribution means a lot.” S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G F O U N DAT I O N

Sounds Good Can you identify that sound? Cuts of

steel carve up the frozen lake. The clack of wooden sticks and joyful glee fill the chilly air as young children glide across the icy surface chasing a tiny black saucer. The player emerges from the scrum and flicks a shot. A sharp ping echoes through the starry night as the puck ricochets off the post. 7 8 S TA R K E Y H E A R I N G FO U N DAT I O N

Do you remember the first time you went ice skating? Perhaps it was with your family on a frozen neighborhood pond or on a first date at a popular city park. Like many things in life, the only way to learn how to ice skate is to fall. It will likely involve scrapes, bumps and bruises, both to the body and ego. But falling isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t failure. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an act of courage.

One in six American teens has noise-induced hearing loss due to loud sounds.

.org

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