In-store events include an internationally-acclaimed photography exhibit by Bryan Adams featuring Hear the World celebrity ambassadors and free hearing screenings
Stäfa, Switzerland - October 12, 2009 - The Hear the World initiative by Phonak announced an initiative with Macy's department stores today to bring the message of hearing loss awareness - a growing issue that affects 31 million Americans - to cities across the U.S. via the Hear the World Tour - a traveling photography exhibit that will be showcased in select Macy's stores over the next few months.
At each event, Macy's shoppers will have the opportunity to receive a free hearing screening, as well as view an internationally-acclaimed photography exhibit featuring the artwork of rock legend and official Hear the World photographer, Bryan Adams. Adams has photographed several notable musicians and celebrities including Mick Jagger, Billy Idol, Lenny Kravitz, Elle Macpherson, John Legend, Michael Bublé and many others. Each image features the celebrity ambassador with a hand behind their ear in a conscious pose of "hearing."
Local hearing healthcare professionals will also be on hand at the event to answer any questions and provide educational materials about hearing loss prevention and treatment.
"The Hear the World initiative was created to draw attention to our ears - unfortunately, the importance of hearing is an issue that is often ignored," said Valentin Chapero, CEO of Phonak. "We are very excited to partner with Macy's for the Hear the World Tour which will bring our important program to some of their most popular retail locations."
While often undetected or neglected, hearing loss can become a social and emotional barrier for the individuals suffering from it, or the families of those it affects. Contrary to popular belief, hearing loss is not solely a concern for the elderly. In fact, according to the Better Hearing Institute (BHI), more than 6 million Americans affected are between the ages of 18 to 44.
About Hear the World & Macy's Events
The Hear the World Tour dmade its debut in Dallas, Texas in the Macy's Galleria from October 12 until October 26, 2009. The next stop on the tour was Macy's Union Square in San Francisco, California from October 14 to October 28, 2009.
In January 2010, the Hear the World Tour will also visit Macy's stores in New York City, Miami and Philadelphia.
To learn more about Hear the World and for the latest event information, visit www.hear-the-world.com/macys, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/CanYouHearTheWorld and follow the Hear the World Twitter channel at www.Twitter.com/Hear_The_World.
About Macy's
Macy's, the largest retail brand of Macy's, Inc., delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at more than 800 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam. Macy's stores and macys.com offer distinctive assortments including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy's is known for such epic events as Macy's 4th of July Fireworks® and the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade®, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Building on a 150-year tradition, Macy's helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities that make a difference in the lives of our customers.
For Macy's media materials, images and contacts, please visit our online pressroom at www.macys.com/pressroom.
About Hear the World
Hear the World is a global initiative by hearing system manufacturer Phonak created to raise awareness about the importance of hearing. The initiative calls attention to the social and emotional impact of hearing loss and addresses prevention of and solutions to a problem that affects more than 16% of the world's population. Bryan Adams, Annie Lennox, Lenny Kravitz, Plácido Domingo and other renowned musicians support the Hear the World initiative as ambassadors. In the context of the Hear the World initiative, Phonak has established the non-profit Hear the World Foundation to improve the quality of life of people with hearing loss through financial and technical assistance. The foundation is committed to the prevention of hearing loss as well as the support of people with hearing loss and their families.
For more information, please visit www.hear-the-world.com.
For more information on Phonak, please visit www.phonak.com, www.phonakpro.com or the Phonak web channel on Audiology Online.
