Christina Payne
Hi. I am a mom of three. My daughter is deaf. She is the only person in our family with hearing loss. When we first learned of her diagnosis, I had no idea what the future would hold for her or us. Meeting other parents of kids with hearing loss was life changing for our family. It helped us know that even though things were different than planned, we would be okay!
This program is being presented with financial assistance as a grant from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources.
What We Do
The West Virginia Hands & Voices Parent Support Program provides support to families as they go through the process of learning their baby’s hearing status.
We provide:
- Information on hearing screening and testing;
- Support during the discovery of your baby’s hearing status;
- Referral and linkage to other needed programs;
- Advocacy, and education on how to advocate for your baby and family;
- Workshops on topics most needed by families; and
- A network of families supporting each other.
Meet our Parent Support Specialists
Melanie Blair
Hello! I am a mom to my one and only son, Nathaniel (Nate.) Born with bilateral microtia and atresia, he is deaf due to not having ears or ear canals. My husband and I were shocked because we had no idea to expect it. We have had a wonderful support group of other families that have helped us along the way. We waited so long to have a family. Now have our own unique family life and we couldn’t see it being any other way.
Why Your Baby’s Hearing Health is so Important
Language is key to baby meeting developmental milestones. The earlier baby starts receiving input, whether through voiced or visual language, the more likely baby will be to develop age appropriate language. Your baby’s most important learning takes place between birth and three-years-old and hearing loss that is undiagnosed can interfere with their understanding. If your baby has hearing loss, it is important to know as soon as possible.
Why We’re Here
The West Virginia Hands & Voices Parent Support Program was established to provide support to families from those who have been through this process and know the importance of having a good support system as you find out the status of your baby’s hearing. West Virginia law requires that all babies be screened for hearing loss. We can help your family as you navigate the hearing screening process.re.