My name is Deirdre Keane and  I have worn hearing aids all my life, until the hearing aid in my right year did not work anymore my freshman year of college.  I received my first cochlear implant 23 years ago at University of Chicago from Dr. Redleaf and my second cochlear implant five years ago by Dr. Gluth. With cochlear implants, I am able to hear sounds that I have never heard before like the birds, crickets, pop fizzing(my favorite sound) and so many more. My parents have always taught me to advocate for myself and to not settle for less. I am now advocating for others with hearing loss in my role as President of Hearing Loss Association of America Chicago Lincoln Park Chapter.  I have been a part of this chapter for 14 years taking on various leadership roles on the executive board and the Chicago Walk4Hearing. Advocating for others is a passion and I have learned that effective communication is key in making others aware of what we, as individuals with hearing loss, need. Many people with hearing loss are not aware of the resources and support that are out there so any donation to help bring these resources to people in the Chicago community would be appreciated! Thank you.