HOW IT GOT STARTED
The Roots
Hello, I go by the pen-name of Claire (partly because I'm a real sucker for writing - hence a pen-name) from Singapore. To understand how Hear Me Out got started, I have to tell you my story.
As a Cochlear Implanted recipient, I have profound hearing loss and was implanted on one side at the age of 2.5 years. Throughout my study, I attended mainstream schools which helped me grow to become who I am today, but at the same time, it made me distant from the d/Deaf culture.
I'm not going to hide this, I had an "identity crisis" when I was struggling to find where I belong. After much reading and researching to find out why I was feeling that way, I was surprised (and relieved) that I was not alone. Many CI-recipients feel that they do not belong to either the Deaf or the Hearing world. People categorize us as "deaf" with a small d.
I did eventually find CI and HA friends to share my thoughts and hearing related problems with, and vice-versa. However, it has also made me wonder if there are individuals out there who wish they have someone to relate to, or at least someone to turn to for advice for many situations that my friends and I discuss about.
To those who know me personally, I'm really not the kind who likes to publicize about myself online for many eyes to see and judge. In fact, I don't consider myself a role model. But, if tidbits of my own experience can help value-add to others in their own lives, then that would be the ultimate gratification for me. Combining with my love for writing, Hear Me Out is now set out to be a record of personal experiences and consolidation of tips, reflections, and perhaps others' perspectives.
I hope that HMO will become a useful source to those seeking inspiration, advice or solace. May HMO encourage you to go beyond your limits, embrace yourself for who you are and make you less alone.
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If you are eager to share your own tips, experiences, or perspectives, feel free to contact me via email at kkailin07@gmail.com and we can perhaps work something out.
P.S. I may not be the fastest respondent, but I'll definitely check it out.
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Kind regards,
Claire
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