Melissa O'Brien

Hello! My name is Melissa O'Brien. My husband and I have four children, 2 of which have a genetic bilateral progressive hearing loss. Our 15-year-old Kaysen failed his newborn screening but wasn't officially identified and aided until the age of two. He is now qualified to get a cochlear implant in one ear, so we are currently in the process of getting a CI. Kaysen is a social butterfly, highly motivated, and extremely creative. He spends most of his time doing sports videography, participating in cross county, and golfing. Our 5-year-old Penelope also failed her newborn screening but received her first set of hearing aids at 4 months of age. Penelope is our little sour patch kiddo and is a force to be reckoned with. She is smart, determined, and independent (when she wants to be). Having experience from Kaysen really helped us navigate and advocate for early detection and support for Penelope. I am so excited to be a Parent Guide because I know just how important having information and support is to not only newly identified children but throughout the ever-changing needs of your children. This community is the most welcoming group of individuals I have ever met, and it is truly a blessing to be part of it!