Hear and Say Centre to help 3 hearing impaired children

(By Sarah Russo - Bond University Journalism Student)

The Varsity Lakes Hear and Say Centre will help three hearing impaired children with the $30,000 raised during their last 2009 event.

Development manager Robyn Symons said while the $30,000 was a great start they needed to raise much more money so they could help additional children.

“We raised a total of $30,000 which is enough to help three children for one year,” she said.

Ms Symons said the centre had around 260 children in need.
 
Fundraising organiser Jen Worthington said it costs $10,000 per child to receive treatment.
 
“Ten thousand dollars is enough to provide one child with therapy intensive which is play based, devices and the stay at the centre,” she said.
 
Sensory hearing loss is caused by damaged or missing hair cells in the Cochlea, inner ear, which depending on the level of severity can be resolved with a cochlea implant.
 
Mrs Worthington said the centre aimed to help families with the cost of treatment, which many could otherwise not afford.
 
“More doctors need to inform families about the free services available for the hearing impaired,” said Mrs Worthington.
 
“It’s through fundraising such as the charity balls and the upcoming Butterfly Appeal that these children are able to receive help.”
 
The Moulin Rouge themed charity ball was held at Conrad Jupiter’s Casino in September.

Further information can be found about hearing impairment and other fundraising events at www.hearandsaycentre.com.au