What's New at NOSHC
The collaboration between Lighthouse for the Blind and NOSHC began with
a concern from LRS (Louisiana Rehabilitation Services) vocational counselor
Jessie Saxton. Ms. Saxton works primarily with the deaf and hard of hearing but
also assists the blind and visually impaired. Ms. Saxton approached NOSHC expressing concern for those who are elderly and blind, particularly those who suffer from Usher’s syndrome. Usher’s syndrome is prevalent throughout southeast Louisiana; it deteriorates vision and hearing among aging individuals. Ms. Saxton wished that those with deteriorating vision and hearing be fit with hearing aids before all vision and hearing was lost, thus diminishing the isolation experience from dual sensory loss.
NOSHC responded to Ms. Saxton’s concern by contacting Lighthouse for the Blind. Ann Butcher of Lighthouse and NOSHC’s director Lesley Jernigan collaborated and crafted a proposal. The proposal was accepted by the Eye Ear Nose and Throat Foundation for funding.
| Through this grant NOSHC provides monthly hearing clinics for hearing
screenings, follow-up evaluations, and when warranted, the dispensing of
hearing aids. These services are available to employees and clients of the
Lighthouse. Now in its second year, the grant funds 20 hearing aids.
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