We pride ourselves on our community-oriented approach to hearing care. By supporting our neighbors and educating our community about the need for hearing loss prevention and treatment, we hope to help people overcome the stigma associated with hearing loss.
Foundations
Sol is a member of a number of foundations whose missions are to increase public awareness about hearing loss and its impact on quality of life.
Many focus specifically on those experiencing untreated hearing loss in impoverished communities locally and throughout the world, as less than three percent of these individuals can afford hearing aids or even have access to the care they need.
Recent Trip to Alaska
Last summer, Sol Barros participated in a humanitarian mission to one of the most remote areas in the United States – Bethel, Alaska. With a population of just over 6,000, more than half of which are Alaska Natives, the indigenous peoples of Alaska, most lacked access to treatment for hearing loss.
Sol was one of approximately 60 audiologists who went on the mission, armed with donated hearing aids and equipment to provide hearing tests and wax removal. For many patients — most of them seniors — this was the first hearing test they’d ever had.
Working from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, Sol and her team treated at least 100 people per day, ranging in age from 18 to 90. Many of her patients traveled great distances, some more than three hours by boat, to receive a hearing test.
While these were long hours, Sol felt inspired by the end of each day.
Sol helped a grandpa hear his grandchild for the first time. Tears just started rolling down his face – there was so much joy.
One elderly man, a veteran, looked surprised when he heard his daughter say, “Hi dad, I love you.” “Talk some more,” he said. “I didn’t know your voice sounded like that.”
Another older gentleman asked Sol, “Where were you 40 years ago for my music?” Throughout his life, the man had learned to play many instruments despite his severely limited hearing.
Arriving home after this mission trip, Sol felt humbled and grateful for her own quality of life, yet keenly aware that many Nevada County residents also do not get the hearing screening and care they need.
If you are interested in learning more about the effects of untreated hearing loss or the benefits of hearing aids, please contact our office at (530) 272-2247 for more information.
