Barry's Gift

In memoriam of Barry Souder for his grandson Oakley Souder's medical care cost related to hearing impairment.

Our grandson Oakley was born deaf and at 1, received a cochlear implant.  At that time we were told there was no hope for his other ear…he would never be a fully hearing child. To our great joy, Oakley was able to receive a second cochlear implant just weeks before Barry’s death. Barry was overjoyed by this and was ready to dedicate his life to ensuring Oakley would one day be able to hear when he was by the water, which is where he and his dad spend many hours swimming, fishing, and surfing. Oakley is a water boy and as much as he loves the sea, he has never experienced it fully, or safely. The cochlear implants Oakley has are not waterproof, so when he is at the water’s edge he is not able to hear the waves, nor is he able to hear his father’s warnings. This broke Barry’s heart…your gift will make Barry’s dream for his grandson a reality.  With the funds received we will be equiping him with waterproof implants so he will be able to fully enjoy his life by the water.