Help Given to Hearing-Impaired Teen

“I don’t understand things at school…my grades are low…and I really try so hard…I can’t seem to make friends. This makes me sad…”

This is a quote from a pretty 14-year-old young lady named Michelle Cassidy. Even though Michelle (pictured at left with Ed and Denise Crenshaw, Sounds of Life Campaign Chairs) was very bright and capable she struggled so hard to process the smallest requests from her parents, teachers and friends.

Michelle’s parents took her to several doctors and other specialists, but they couldn’t find the solution. Finally, they were referred to Central Florida Speech and Hearing Center, a United Way partner, where Dr. Sarah Curtis, Clinical Audiologist diagnosed her with Auditory Processing Disorder (APD). The solution for Michelle was simple – an FM system which puts the sounds directly in her ear so she can hear the person speaking over any distracting background noise. She also comes to the Center for weekly sessions with Speech Pathologist, Tina Bell.

Tina reports that “Michelle doesn’t become discouraged when tasks are too difficult for her. Instead she meets these challenges head on by implementing strategies that she has learned.” Michelle now says that school is so much better this year, she’s making much better grades and she’s not afraid to talk to her friends. With help from the staff at Central Florida Speech and Hearing Center, Michelle has found a new confidence and is able to focus on the tasks in her day-to-day routine.

United Way of Central Florida improves people's health. A healthy workforce is on the job. And our services for people of all ages, including children and the disabled, are especially helpful to your employees who are parents or caregivers to family members in need.

For more information on how to donate or volunteer, please visit www.uwcf.org.