My Nonprofit Reviews

As a 99-year-old woman with profound hearing loss, I can confidently say that my life has been significantly enriched by my association with HLAA - Diablo Valley. I discovered this wonderful organization over a decade ago, thanks to my neighbor who was already a member. Since then, it has been an enlightening journey of learning and personal growth.

The meetings I attended were not just informative, but also incredibly supportive. I found a community that understood my challenges and offered practical solutions. The chapter president, Ann Thomas, was particularly instrumental in this process. Her empathy, knowledge, and unwavering support have been a beacon of light in my journey with hearing loss.

Being a part of HLAA - DV has empowered me to navigate the world with confidence despite my hearing loss. It’s more than just an organization; it’s a lifeline for people like me. I am immensely grateful for its existence and the positive impact it has had on my life.

I have been a chapter member of HLAA Diablo Valley for over ten years. I discovered HLAA-DV through a neighbor who is a member of the New York City chapter and also this chapter. I miss the lack of in-person meetings (socialization) brought on by COVID. While under Ann Thomas’ leadership, this chapter will always face the challenges of hearing loss.

The COVID pandemic has been difficult for me because of my inability to hear clearly and all the barriers the pandemic put in play. I relied on HLAA-DV to keep me informed during this period on ways I try to communicate with others despite the masks and plastic barriers that reduce and distort the speaker’s speech.

HLAA-DV has helped me in a way you may consider unusual. I have received some of the typical benefits - support, education, etc. More important to me is that my family now has an understanding of the challenges I “face” when they talk to me. Don’t yell, don’t speak from another room or with your back to me. Face me! Take a seat. Talk normally, clearly, and don’t be in a hurry. Oh, yeah, and turn off the TV.

Thank you, Ann and HLAA-DV.