On June 22, Mayor Brian McGuire of Mauston, Wis, joined representatives of Mile Bluff Medical Center and the HearStrong Foundation in a special ceremony to formally recognize Wisconsin student Karlie Stefan as a HearStrong Champion for her dedication to overcoming hearing loss and inspiring others to do the same.

Stefan, who was nominated for the award by Rob June, AuD, of Mile Bluff Medical Center, also received a special congratulations from fellow HearStrong Champion, former Green Bay Packer Blaise Winter.

Karlie Stefan, HearStrong Champion

Karlie Stefan, HearStrong Champion

According to an announcement from HearStrong, Stefan was diagnosed with hearing loss as a toddler. Thanks to her early adoption of hearing devices and commitment to speech therapy, Stefan’s communication skills are excellent. “Most people I communicate with today would never guess I have a hearing loss unless I tell them or they see my hearing aids when I wear my hair up,” said Stefan.

Currently a psychology student at the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse, Stefan is passionate about continuing to pursue her personal and professional goals regardless of her hearing loss. Stefan said that she has come to understand that we all have to use what we are given and make the best of it; gaining experiences, pursuing passions, committing to what’s right, and sharing one’s ??own talents with the world.

“You’ve got to be your own advocate,” said Stefan.

The HearStrong Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that seeks to shatter the stereotypes surrounding hearing loss and its advanced solutions by honoring the accomplishments of those who have overcome hearing loss and inspire others to do the same.

Source: HearStrong Foundation