Kent and Sussex Courier, UK
Wednesday
Audiologist James is jetting off to Armenia to give the gift of hearing
AN AUDIOLOGIST from Crowborough is returning to Armenia on his second hearing mission with Starkey Hearing Technologies.
James Owen, from Owen Hearing, on Croft Road in the town has been invited by Starkey to take part in the project.
Joining 14 other hearing audiologists from across the UK and Ireland – and a six-strong team from the hearing device manufacturer's European headquarters in Cheshire – James will travel 2,400 miles to Yerevan, the capital of Armenia.
James's visit is part of the worldwide Starkey Hearing Foundation initiative, which has provided over 1.9 million hearing devices in more than 100 countries. Its mission is to give the gift of hearing to those in need, helping them to achieve their potential. High-profile supporters include Richard Branson, Bill Clinton and Elton John.
An initial visit was undertaken last summer to carry out hearing screening tests and take ear impressions to identify recipients. Then in October, James and other audiologist volunteers flew out on phase one of the mission to fit over 1,800 people with hearing instruments – as well as counselling patients and supporting them with that all-important aftercare.
This month's visit will further build upon the work already undertaken.
James said: "I'm very pleased to be asked back to give the gift of hearing in Armenia.
"It is great to be involved in something that means so much more to the recipients who haven't got the facilities in the own communities.
"This is proof that the Starkey Hearing Foundation doesn't just visit once and leave with no support, it shows that what is given is for the long term with aftercare provided.
"When we last visited we fitted over 1800 people with hearing aids and that only scratched the surface. It's wonderful to be involved in continuing the support of the Armenian people."
According the World Health Organisation, more than 360 million people have disabling hearing loss, with the greatest number living in developing countries.
Unfortunately, less than three per cent can afford hearing aids or access to care.
For further information, visit www.starkey.co.uk, www.starkeyhearing and www.owenhearing.com