Help Lorenzo Get Hearing Aids

My name is Lorenzo, and I’m a program manager living in the DMV area. I’ve been severely Deaf for most of my life, and while it’s shaped me into a more attentive listener and inclusive leader, it’s also brought daily challenges—especially when it comes to communication. I rely on interpreters, captioning tools, and written notes whenever possible, but those resources aren’t always available. This means I often have to advocate for myself, reminding others to use accessible technology or to communicate in ways I can understand. It’s exhausting, and sometimes I miss out on important conversations or decisions, both at work and in my personal life.

Recently, I lost my old hearing aids during an outing with friends in Philadelphia. They were already outdated, but they made a huge difference in helping me function. Since losing them, I’ve been struggling—especially at work. I can’t fully follow meetings, group discussions, or quick verbal updates, and it’s putting my job at serious risk. Not because I lack skill or dedication, but because I no longer have access to the basic tools I need to do my job effectively. Hearing aids are not a luxury—they are a necessity. The kind I need includes specific channels and custom ear molds, which are essential for someone with severe hearing loss like mine. These features aren’t optional extras—they’re what make it possible for me to hear safely and clearly without distortion or pain. Without them, I’m constantly straining to fill in the gaps and often missing critical details.

Unfortunately, my insurance only covers the audiogram, not the hearing aids themselves, leaving me to cover the full cost out of pocket. Living in an area with a high cost of living, it’s just not financially possible for me right now. This isn’t just about convenience. This is about staying employed, staying connected to my community, and preserving my mental, emotional, and spiritual health. I need hearing aids not to make life easier—but to make life possible in a hearing-dominant world. Your support will help me regain my independence, improve my job performance, and reconnect with the world around me. Thank you for considering a donation to help me hear again.