I have been an audiologist for 30+ years, and I have certainly seen a lot of change!  I can counsel and educate people about hearing loss from the professional side of my desk, but I also know what it is like from your side of the desk, too.  My husband lost his hearing entirely in his right ear following surgery several years ago.  On top of that, his hearing is not perfect in his “good ear” either.  This makes for some interesting conversations when he misunderstands what I have said to him.  He says he really appreciates that I do not lose my temper when he doesn’t hear me, because I understand what hearing loss does to a person.  This does not mean I don’t get frustrated, or we don’t miscommunicate sometimes, we do, but I do try to pause and consider that he isn’t ignoring me or not listening, he just can’t hear me well.

I started in audiology because I could have an immediate and positive impact on a person’s life.  Our profession has changed so much over the past 30 years that we find ourselves constantly learning new things and always taking classes to keep up with technology.  The sound quality and noise control we now have is amazing compared to the old days, but in the end, it still comes down to patience, understanding, and taking our time to really listen and communicate clearly with our loved ones.

I love working with my patients and they become like family to me.  We all work together in our office to treat each person as a sacred individual and help them each meet their personal needs for their own lifestyle.  I know how hearing problems can poorly impact a relationship, and how hearing better just makes life easier, for everyone.

Education

• Bachelor of Science, UWSP
• Master of Science, UWSP
• Doctor of Audiology, A.T. Still Arizona School of Health Sciences

Professional Memberships

• American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
• Academy of Doctors of Audiology
• Wisconsin Speech-Language-Hearing Association
• Vice President – Wisconsin Audiology Advocates