What is a Peer Mentor?

Recently, I graduated from the Gallaudet University Peer Mentoring Certification Program, along with 5 other classmates.  At the ceremony, we were asked to say a few words, and I read a definition of what I think a Peer Mentor is, and I thought I would share it with you here.

“A peer mentor is a person who has walked a particular path with regard to the unique challenge of hearing loss and found his or her way.   The peer mentor has confronted their own hearing loss, defined the challenge, and set out to live life to the fullest capacity despite the challenge.  The hearing loss does not define this person, but rather has given this person a peculiar skillset, which enables him or her to adapt, cope, thrive, survive and achieve satisfaction in life.  After the peer mentor has achieved this state of assimilation, acceptance and understanding; he or she decides to help others who are further behind them on the path.  They understand the concept of empathy, which is not feeling sorry for another, but rather feeling for another because he or she has felt those same feelings themselves.  Peer Mentoring involves the concept of ‘paying it forward’ which means that no one need be left behind.” 

Joan Haber

Peer Mentor

June 26, 2012

They All Mumble!

Are you tired and frustrated?  Do you find yourself complaining that everyone around you mumbles?  Do you have trouble hearing people on the telephone?

Have you missed a date because you thought someone said to meet them on Fifth Street but you heard Sixth Street?

Does your family complain about the volume when you watch TV?

Have you stopped going to the movies.  Do you avoid parties?  Do you find yourself wishing that you didn’t have to go out to a restaurant because you know it will be hard to participate in conversation?

While you can claim everyone mumbles, the truth is that everyone does not mumble.  Sure, some people do, but not everyone.  The truth is that you need to face the truth and the ultimate truth is you, my friend, are ready for the next big step: it’s time to have your hearing tested by a hearing health professional.

You can start with an otolaryngologist (ENT), and then go on to an audiologist to learn more about what’s going on in and between your ears.  The more you learn the better you can live.