Thirty four years ago, a dream became a reality. It began in a tiny room with my own private practice.
The children’s toys that my own family had outgrown became the resources I used to teach. We started with just six children and one simple belief: every child deserved the opportunity to listen, speak and connect with the world.
Hear and Say has never been about building, milestones or numbers. It has always been about people.
The babies that found their voices. The families who never gave up. The clinicians, volunteers, supporters and donors who believed in a vision that once seemed impossible. And every person who chose courage over certainty.
Watching children hear their parents’ voices for the first time, say their first words and grow into confident adults has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. Those moments never lose their magic.
While my role today looks different, my heart remains firmly with Hear and Say and everyone who continues this incredible work each day. The mission has always been bigger than any one person, and seeing it continue to change lives is the greatest legacy I could hope for.
Happy birthday, Hear and Say. Thank you to every family, colleague, partner and friend who has been part of this journey. Here’s to continuing to open worlds for generations to come.