WHAT: The Cochlear Implant 2013 Symposium, a national conference of cochlear implant clinicians, will honor two scientists, Dr. Ingeborg Hochmair and Dr. Blake Wilson, who recently received the prestigious Lasker Award for Clinical Medical Research, often referred to as the “American Nobel Prize.” These scientists developed and improved the cochlear implant, allowing deaf patients to hear, transforming lives and for the first time, restoring a human sense with a medical intervention through their pioneering work.
Major General Robert Hedelund, USMC, will also be on hand to discuss cochlear implantation as a solution for the number one health issue facing combat duty personnel—substantial hearing loss incurred during their service to our country.
A highlight of the symposium is the premiere of the new dramatic film, 95 Decibels, followed by a panel discussion with the director, crew and actors, Oct. 24 from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. The movie chronicles the true story of a family whose daughter was diagnosed as profoundly deaf at 18 months of age and the obstacles they faced.
WHO: American Cochlear Implant Alliance is a non-profit dedicated to improving access to cochlear implantation through research, advocacy and awareness.
Available for interviews:
- Lasker Award recipients Dr. Ingeborg Hochmair and Dr. Blake Wilson
- Major General Robert Hedelund, USMC
- ACI Alliance Board of Directors Chair Dr. Craig Buchman (Director of UNC Ear and Hearing Center)
- ACI Alliance Executive Director Donna Sorkin (a cochlear implant recipient)
WHY: Expand awareness of the power of cochlear implants today. Only 6% of eligible individuals in the US currently have a cochlear implant. Deafness can be helped.
WHEN: Thursday, October 24, 1:00 PM
WHERE: Hyatt Regency Capitol Hill, 400 NJ Avenue NW, Washington, DC. Street parking and hotel valet.
RSVP: More information and to schedule an interview: https://www.acialliance.org/ and Donna Sorkin, dsorkin@aciallance.org (cell) 703.585.7336
