Meet The Williams’
Our family grew from 2 to 5 real quick, including our pup Prince. We were thrilled about our twins, Peyton and Parker. At birth, Peyton was healthy, but Parker faced NICU challenges and two deferred hearing tests before being discharged. Little did we know, her resilience would guide us through immense growth and transformation.
During my pregnancy, I noticed ads and received countless emails about getting my babies' hearing tested.
I thought nothing of it other than, okay – I’ll do it. Little did I know, these tests would soon become a critical part of our lives. In August, our girls were born, and we learned that Parker didn't pass either of her hearing tests in her left ear in addition to her having an ear deformity, known as microtia. We were advised not to worry and to repeat the tests in a few weeks. Parker underwent a total of five hearing tests before being diagnosed with moderate to mild hearing loss.
At first, I wasn't sure how to feel. Overwhelmed, maybe?
From her NICU stay to this diagnosis, I felt sad that my little baby had gone through so much in such a brief time. While her NICU stay was thankfully very short, we now had to navigate this permanence. As time went on, I had to push through, set aside my feelings, and focus on ensuring Parker had everything she needed to thrive. By December, we were sitting with an audiologist to discuss early intervention programs, and a hearing device called the Baha Max by Cochlear, which Parker would begin using once she reached six months. Parker underwent another three hearing tests, including a sedated one, to gauge the extent of her hearing loss and to ensure her device was set correctly, continuing these tests until a little after she turned one. As for her hearing device, she doesn't wear it quite as much as she should – shame on us, but we’re working on getting better at it.
As time went on, we began to discuss early intervention programs in depth. Of the two programs she takes part in, GA PINES has been the most impactful. Our Early Intervention Specialist, DiQwan, has been amazing for our family and for Parker. One of our goals is to learn ASL, and with him working at a school for the deaf, he’s incorporated mini ASL lessons during Parker's speech therapy sessions. The time spent with us offered invaluable insight into how to support her with her diagnosis while also ensuring her sister Peyton isn’t left behind. This has certainly been a challenge, making sure Peyton is also learning alongside her sister, as we want to ensure both of our daughters are developing equally.
DiQwan also introduced us to a toddler program at his school, which Parker was able to start attending once she reached the age of 1. I jumped at the opportunity to enroll her in the program. Here, she learned ASL through play, and the program and the people were AMAZING! I was sad when we had to pull her out due to travel, but it warmed my heart to see her attend whenever possible. There was also a parent support group I attended while she was in the program. We learned ASL together from our sweet leader, Sandy, who is deaf, and shared our experiences, navigating life as a family with a child with hearing loss. It was a true sense of community.
My journey with ASL began about a year before the twins were born.
I thought it was the coolest thing when Apple Fitness instructors signed during workouts. Later, I attended a church with worship interpreters. When we received Parker's diagnosis, while not profoundly deaf, the calling became clear.
Teaching my kids ASL has sparked some tough conversations—well, because they aren’t deaf. However, I see it as a valuable opportunity for us all to learn a new language. There's no better time than now. And besides, what's wrong with learning a new language? Seeing them start to “babble” in sign makes me tear up every time! When I see someone signing, I get excited and try to communicate with them. It may not be perfect, but I’m happy to start a conversation. These moments remind me of the importance of connection and understanding.
I’ve also been quite drawn to the deaf community. This vibrant community has welcomed us, and I want to advocate and be a supportive ally within the hearing community.
This journey has been incredible and one I wouldn’t change for the world.
I've met amazing people and learned so much about myself. Seeing the impact this journey has had on the girls fills me with hope for the impact they’ll have on the world as they grow older.
To any parent facing a similar journey, know that you’re not alone. Embrace the challenges, seek support, and advocate fiercely for your child. Our journey has taught us the value of inclusion, the beauty of learning new languages, and the strength that comes from community. I am passionate about deepening my understanding, challenging my perspective, and spreading awareness to those who have no clue what it's like. Our story is one of love, growth, and unwavering commitment to ensuring both Parker and Peyton thrive in their unique ways. I believe everything happens for a reason and embracing that has opened doors we never imagined.
