HLAA-LA Returns to In-Person Meetings!
March 28 marked something many of us had been waiting a long time for: our first in-person HLAA Los Angeles meeting since the pandemic.
Held at the HEAR Center in Pasadena, the morning felt more like a reunion. There were hugs, familiar faces reconnecting, new members being welcomed, and conversations that naturally stretched beyond the agenda. Coffee and donuts were shared, but more importantly, so were stories (including Michael sharing the thoughtful ASL gift from his niece), updates, and that sense of community that was hard to replicate in our Zoom meetings.
A special shoutout to the Director of the HEAR Center, Marisol Perez, for making this in-person gathering possible and providing the space for our chapter.
It was standing-room only at our Hearing Other People’s Experiences (HOPE) meeting on February 22, where about 15 people gathered, including several new to HLAA. Attendees shared their heartfelt hearing loss stories and supported each other for two hours and many stayed afterwards to continue the conversation, while enjoying the brunch feast provided by our “hostess with the mostess” Georgia Fleischer. The theme of our sharing seemed to be “We are all family and never alone.”
HLAA National even sent a photographer to shoot some photos for their upcoming magazine and other channels, with Communications representative and longtime HLAA-LA member Teri Breier present to relay the latest updates.
Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 are poised to serve a dual purpose, not only as wireless earbuds but also as over-the-counter hearing aids. This new feature is designed for Americans suffering from mild to moderate hearing loss, providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional hearing aids, which often carry a stigma and high price tag. Experts are optimistic about the potential for AirPods to make hearing assistance more accessible, especially following FDA authorization of the Hearing Aid Feature (HAF) software. The AirPods Pro 2 will include features like hearing protection, a built-in hearing test, and hearing amplification, making it easier for users to manage their hearing health discreetly.
Dr. Cohen detailed her professional journey with her deep-rooted experience and passion for audiology, highlighting her affiliations with prestigious organizations like the