In January of 2011, my first article is published in the 2011 Winter Issue of the National news letter, “The Communicator,” through the Hands & Voices Organization (www.handsandvoices.org).  My article is called:  Falling Through The Cracks With Microtia/Atresia and can be accessed under this website’s “About” section under “Our Story” and also at the following link:  http://www.handsandvoices.org/articles/early_intervention/V14-2_cracks.htm

Also, shortly after this article was published I received many e-mails from audiology students letting me know that their professors had asked them to read my article as a class assignment (from various states).  I also received an e-mail from Linda Cox, a nationally renown audiologist in Florida letting me know that she would like to share our support group with her patients and colleagues and also have them add my article to the news letter she organizes. 

In December of 2010, our support group is acknowledged by Dr. Thomas Romo and his staff as a helpful resource for families with Microtia and Atresia.

In December of 2010, I receive an e-mail from a US military counselor asking if she could utilize our support group website as a means of educating US Military families stationed in Guam so they could know what options are available regarding Microtia and missing ears in general.

In December of 2010, I am contacted by Dr. Cheryl Johnson, one of Colorado’s top audiologists, and I am asked if she could utilize pictures of my daughter Ally wearing her BAHA for teaching her students in the classroom.  Dr. Johnson also asks to pass along information about our support group to her students.  Dr. Johnson also asks if she could share my article with her students once it has been published.

As of December 2010, both our family ENT and my OB/Gyn know about our support group and appreciate being updated on Microtia and Atresia.  Both agreed to pass along the information about our support group to families and staff regarding children being born with Microtia and Atresia at Avista Adventist Hospital (where I delivered both Hailey and Ally).

In December of 2010, Dr. Joseph Roberson’s office decides to add a link to our support group on the AtresiaRepair website for families as a helpful resource. 

In October 2010, I begin planning for our group’s very first Secret Santa Gift Exchange for both children and adults in our support group.

As of October 2010, I become a member of the Parent Advisory Board/Council for Children’s Hospital Colorado.

In October 2010, I am asked by Dr. Reinisch and Dr. Lewin’s office to send a Microtia survey through our support group to find out some FAQ (frequently asked questions) about Microtia that would help the office update their Microtia questionnaire.

In October of 2010, I am asked by the Hands & Voices Organization to write an article about my experience with Ally and her Microtia and Atresia.  I am also invited to the Hands & Voices Gala where I am asked to speak about my experience with Microtia and Atresia as a parent advocate.