I’m honored to be participating in the Hands & Voices New Year 5K: Riding the Waves into 2026, supporting a mission that is incredibly close to my heart.

My family’s journey with hearing loss began long before I became a Hands & Voices board member. My husband grew up hard of hearing, but without access to a fully accessible first language. Watching him navigate life with the impact of language deprivation is a big part of why our family is committed to doing things differently for our daughter.

Our daughter, Nevaeh Grace, was born six weeks early — on the last day of Deaf Awareness Month. She was identified with hearing loss as an infant and aided before her first birthday. From day one, we promised that she would grow up with the access, support, and community every Deaf/Hard of Hearing child deserves.

But we quickly learned what so many families discover:

There is no handbook.

No single “right” path.

Just a deep desire to make sure your child never feels alone.

Florida Hands & Voices changed everything for us.

We found unbiased resources, a safe place to ask questions, and a community that celebrates children for exactly who they are — in whichever language and communication approach works best for them.

Today, I serve on the Florida Hands & Voices board because I want every family to feel supported, empowered, and connected from the very beginning. No parent should have to navigate this journey scared, isolated, or uninformed. Not in Florida. Not anywhere.

Your donation — big or small — directly supports families just like mine.

It helps provide resources, outreach, and community opportunities that lift up Deaf/Hard of Hearing children and their families across our state.

Thank you for helping me raise awareness, foster joy, and make sure no family walks this path alone. ??

Let’s ride the waves into 2026 together!