Inspiration and Connection in Casper

By Wendy Hewitt, Wyoming H&V

Each year our Wyoming Families for Hands & Voices Parent Training continues to grow and 2019 was no exception. Karen Putz was a keynote speaker and her insight as a Deaf adult and a mom to three Deaf/hard of hearing (D/hh) children was priceless for families attending, and perhaps especially for those struggling with a new identification and the unknowns ahead in a child’s future. Here are the perspectives from three parents who attended the conference. The first mom has attended all three years; the second has attended twice, and the third mom was a first-time attendee.

“I feel so fortunate to be able to attend the Parent Training Conferences and that Wyoming Families for Hands and Voices has had them for parents and families. From learning new things, meeting other parents who have similar experiences, sharing tips and info with one another, to watching your child make friends with other children who are deaf/hard of hearing the experience is invaluable!” — Molly McColley

My family has attended the parent training for two years in Casper, Wyoming. Our son, Hunter, is a four-year-old with a bilateral sensorineural hearing loss and is aided. The parent training has made a huge impact in our home. Each year we have grown and evolved in our understanding, knowledge and love for the deaf and hard of hearing community.

Our first year was full of an incredible amount of information. We learned about all of the resources available to us as a family regarding each stage of our child’s life. We learned about the amazing technology that is available to help our son navigate as he grows, and we took away valuable information regarding the education system. We now feel equipped to help Hunter as he advocates through his journey with hearing loss. Though we obtained a wealth of valuable knowledge, what really hit home for our family was meeting all of the other families. We had just met these people but felt connected to them; we could relate to them. We shared our stories of frustration, tears, laughter and joy. My husband and I no longer felt alone on this journey. This gave us hope. We felt validated that we are not just a mom and dad trying to raise our child– we were a completely educated family full of so much to offer Hunter. We met our village of people that will help raise our son to become the best version of himself.

This last June, we experienced the same connection and great events and educational opportunities, but this time Karen Putz as the keynote engaged us as parents and helped us unwrap just how lucky we are to have these children in our lives. She motivated us to be the best version of ourselves, too. Karen brought a special touch to the conference and left my family walking away proud to be who and where we are in this life. Aside from being gifted with Karen’s presence, Hunter also changed in his ability to socialize with other peers from last year to this year. He was older and extremely excited to be around others just like him. The joy that gave him was life-changing. Hunter established relationships I hope he has for a lifetime.

Each year they also hold a parent/child panel, which is an opportunity for families who have walked the walk to share their stories and advice. I can’t personally describe how uplifting and encouraging this is. The panelists have put so many of our families fears and worries to rest.

There aren’t enough words to share what a fantastic opportunity the parent conference provides a family. The Chapter works so hard to make this a very special weekend, full of education and fun. We can’t begin to express our gratitude to the parents and professionals (there are so many of you) who put everything together to help us figure out this journey. We need all of you. My husband and I can’t, and will not do this alone. Hunter needs all of you!” – Ashley Salmon

“My son is eight months old and he was born with Microtia of the left ear. I have worked in Special Education for 12 years and have been at Deaf/Hard of Hearing trainings as a professional, but the Wyoming Hands & Voices Parent Training was my first experience as a parent. I was very excited and nervous to attend. Thankfully my husband could come with me.

We really liked learning about the access to technology from Department of Vocational Rehabilitation. We very much enjoyed meeting all the families at the D/HH Library. Most of all we loved hearing from our keynote speaker, Karen Putz. She was so inspiring. Her journey as a person who is Deaf and as a parent really was so amazing to hear. We loved how much she focused on deafness as a gift.

We really enjoyed hearing stories from other families, all the resources, and support from everyone around us.” – Melody Lehman

Directors at Wyoming H&V are working now to secure funding for our 2020 conference. We are looking at the idea of hosting the conference in a different city than we have the last three years. We are also making plans for some Family Fun Events is different towns around the state. Wyoming is also working towards ASTra (Advocacy Support and Training) training for our state. We are so excited for what the future holds for Wyoming families raising children who are D/HH.  ~