Hi everyone,
My name is Will Sheridan, and I’m raising money for a cause that has become deeply personal to me and my family.
On April 25th, my daughter was born not breathing. What should have been the happiest moment of our lives to welcome our second daughter quickly turned into one of the scariest. She was sent to the NICU, where we spent the next couple of days nervously by her side. During that time, we learned she had congenital hypothyroidism and, even more life-changing, she failed both of her newborn hearing tests.
After follow-ups with specialists, we learned that while there was no structural issue, she does in fact have hearing loss. We were quickly introduced to a new world of ENT specialists, audiologists, and hearing aids—ranging anywhere from $4,000 a pair to $16,000. Thankfully, my family is in a position to cover her care (early steps a Florida program), but I couldn’t stop thinking: what about the families who can’t?
That’s where Sounding Joy, Inc. comes in. They work tirelessly to help children and families access the resources, support, and life-changing hearing technology they need. Their mission ensures that no child is left behind simply because the cost of hearing aids is out of reach.
Why This Matters
The numbers are staggering:
- 30 million Americans live with hearing loss in both ears.
- 3 in every 1,000 children are born with hearing loss in one or both ears.
And beyond the numbers, the human impact is devastating:
- Children with untreated hearing loss are twice as likely to become addicted to drugs or alcohol.
- They are five times as likely to attempt suicide.
No parent should ever have to watch their child struggle simply because they can’t afford treatment. Hearing aids don’t just restore sound—they restore opportunity, connection, confidence, and the chance for a full, thriving life.
My Personal Commitment
To show how deeply I believe in this cause, I’ll be running the Holiday Five Marathon on December 27th in honor of my daughter and all the families who are fighting this battle. Every mile I run is a reminder of the strength and resilience these children show every single day. I hope this effort inspires generosity and spreads awareness far beyond what I could do alone.
How You Can Help
Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a tangible difference. Even a few dollars helps move this mission forward—helping a child gain access to the world of sound, school, and social connection.
If you can’t donate right now, that’s okay. Sharing this fundraiser with friends, family, and your community is just as powerful in spreading awareness.