History of EarCommunity.org and Microtia & Atresia Support Group

02/10/26

Welcome to our newest Ear Community staff member! Meet Lauren Hoyal, Ear Community’s new Program Director! Lauren is responsible for managing our organization’s events, advocacy outreach for hearing device donations and fundraising. Lauren and her family found Ear Community after her youngest son, Paxton, was born with microtia and atresia. The Hoyal Family has since […]

01/13/26

The Ear Community announces it’s newest Board of Directors Member, Dr. Kripa Raman. “We would like to welcome Dr. Kripa Raman to Ear Community’s Board of Directors, says Melissa Tumblin, Founder and Executive Director of the Ear Community Organization. I have had the honor of knowing Kripa over the past four years. She has already […]

01/09/26

By: Quiver LegislationRadar Dec. 9, 2025  We have received text from S. 3400: Ally’s Act. This bill was received on 2025-12-09, and currently has 4 cosponsors. Here is a short summary of the bill: This bill, known as Ally’s Act, aims to enhance health insurance coverage related to hearing devices and systems by making specific […]

12/17/25

Meet Gael! Gael is eight years old and was born with unilateral microtia and aural atresia of his right ear. When Gael’s family recently moved to North Carolina, his mom, Alba, started noticing that he was not hearing everything. In between moments of him looking a little lost in conversation to questioning what she just […]

12/07/25

  December 4, 2025 MED-EL USA DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA – MED-EL USA announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved an expanded indication for MED-EL cochlear implants for children seven months and older with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). This approval makes MED-EL’s cochlear implant system the first and only FDA-approved option for […]

12/04/25

November 9th, 2025 Thank you to everyone who embraced National Microtia and Atresia Awareness Day on November 9th all over the world this year! This year was a little extra special because it marks a decade of promoting awareness and education since establishing our awareness day! This year was also special because Ear Community turned […]

12/03/25

The Hearing Matters Podcast with Blaise Delfino aired today, December 3rd, 2025, sharing my story about advocacy for Ally and the Ear Community Organization as well as our push for Ally’s Act, H.R. 4606 to pass! “NEW Hearing Matters Podcast episode featuring Melissa Tumblin, Founder of EarCommunity.org. The link to the full conversation will in […]

12/02/25

Today is Giving Tuesday! Ear Community has changed lives and saved lives! Our organization created a community of love and support along with a sense of belongingness and acceptance, one of education and advocacy, and a place for all children and adults with microtia and atresia and their families! This year alone, Ear Community’s programs […]

11/13/25

MED-EL USA announces the launch of the 2026 IDEASforEARS children’s invention contest November 9, 2025 – (Innsbruck, Austria): Every great idea starts with curiosity – and sometimes, even the youngest minds can imagine new ways to make life easier for people with hearing loss. MED-EL, a world leader in hearing implant innovation, is calling on […]

11/04/25

November 9th is National Microtia and Atresia Awareness Day, dedicated to spreading hope & knowledge concerning a rare congenital anomaly known as Microtia & Aural Atresia – when the ears do not fully develop during the 1st trimester of pregnancy. Microtia derives its name from the Latin terms for little ears or missing ears. Aural […]

11/04/25

Today, I would like to honor a very dear friend of mine and thank him for all of his help, incredible work and advocacy! Finding the right help can sometimes be difficult, but when you do find that someone who truly understands what it is that you are fighting for and sees what is needed […]

11/04/25

Recently, I had the opportunity to catch up with UK Model, Sasha Gardner, and talk about microtia and atresia, on her podcast – Sasha Says! Sasha was born with microtia and atresia and she has been working to raise awareness about our rare cause and talk about anti-bullying on her podcast. Both of us have […]

09/10/25

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, September 10, 2025 Contact: Grace Martinez Grace.Martinez@mail.house.gov VIDEO: Rep. Neguse Joins Ally and Melissa Tumblin to Introduce “Ally’s Act,” Legislation to Expand Coverage for Specialized Hearing Devices Washington, D.C. — Colorado Congressman Joe Neguse has once again teamed up with Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) to introduce “Ally’s Act,” a bipartisan […]

09/08/25

Official t-shirts & more are now available in different styles & colors with proceeds going to support our Ear Community Organization!  * Look for order deadline dates below!* Order by September 30th, 2025 for Ear Community shirts! Order by October 10th, 2025 for Lucky Ears shirts! HOW TO ORDER: The following are the official links […]

09/04/25

On Saturday, July 19th, 2025, Alida Proehl organized the very first 5K run/walk in Tremont, Illinois for our Ear Community Organization called “Hear Me Run!” This was a very special day for Alida because she wanted to help give back to the community and raise awareness about a rare cause that is near and dear […]

08/19/25

Here is a feel good story for the day in our microtia and atresia community! Chris Bowman is a member in our community who was born with unilateral microtia and atresia. Chris helped co-host our picnic in Virginia this summer. During our Virginia picnic, a family who was only Spanish speaking joined us during our […]

08/19/25

Congratulations to Wyatt Sclafani for being one of our Ear Community college scholarship recipients this year! Wyatt was born with unilateral microtia and atresia of his right ear and lives in Belmont, Massachusetts with his family. Wyatt grew up playing football and rugby during school and has become quite the start athlete at his high […]

08/19/25

Congratulations to Mya DeAngelis for being one of our Ear Community college scholarship recipients this year! Mya was born with unilateral microtia and atresia of her right ear and has Goldenhar Syndrome. She lives with her family in Lincoln, Rhode Island. Mya is an honors student who graduated with a rank of 30 out of […]

08/19/25

Congratulations to Joshua Gorlin for being one of our Ear Community college scholarship recipients this year! Joshua was born with unilateral microtia and atresia of his right ear and lives in New York. Ever since Joshua was a child, he has loved music! He had dreamed of being a music teacher for years! In elementary […]

08/14/25

The Ear Community Organization & Vanderbilt University Medical Center have been hosting a collaborative microtia and atresia event together for nearly a decade now. “This event is incredibly special to the Ear Community Organization,” says Founder, Melissa Tumblin. Ten years ago, Dr. Ron Eavey (past Chair of the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery & […]

08/13/25

Ally’s Act, H.R. 4606 was introduced again on July 22nd, 2025. Before our bill was reintroduced during the 119th session, Ear Community and some of our endorsers and advocates were already hard at work advocating in Washington, DC on May 2nd and during July 8th, 9th and 10th of this year! Ally’s Act, H.R. 4606 […]

06/16/25

Meet Daxon! Daxon is five years old and was born with unilateral microtia and aural atresia and lives in New Brunswick, Canada! He is one of the many children who was born during Covid-19. To Daxon’s parent’s surprise, he was born without his right ear. Even though Daxon is your typical five year old who […]

06/02/25

News provided by Cochlear North America Jun 02, 2025, 14:16 ET   NEW Baha® 7 Sound Processor: First in bone conduction to enable Bluetooth® LE Audio* and Auracast™ broadcast audio streaming capabilities1,2. NEW Baha SoundBand™: Improved look and fitting options over current Baha Softband to help children with hearing loss thrive. NEW Bluetooth™ LE Audio […]

06/02/25

Meet Luis! Luis was born with bilateral microtia and atresia and lives in North Carolina. He’s your typical fun loving five year old who loves school! Luis’ mom, Obdulia, has made sure he’s had the help he needs at school through IEP services and help from his school therapists who work with him everyday to […]

05/28/25

The Cutchin Family run the D & L Nursery in Ocklawaha, Florida where they hosted their annual Customer Appreciation Day in May. Each year, the nursery picks a charity organization to help give back to that they are grateful to, just like they are grateful to their customers. This year, they selected The Ear Community […]

05/20/25

The Ear Community Organization turned 15 years old on May 20th, 2025! Before Ear Community was founded, our microtia and atresia families struggled to come together, learn about all of their options, receive the support that was needed and find the answers we all are looking for! When Ally Tumblin was born in 2009, the […]

05/16/25

What a wonderful time attending the ACPA – Annual American Cleft Palate Craniofacial Association’s Meeting, last week in Palm Springs, CA! It was wonderful seeing so many friends, colleagues and advocates again! I am always reminded at ACPA of how grateful I am knowing how many medical professionals, researchers and advocates continue working on what […]

05/05/25

In honor of Bone Anchored Awareness Day, also known as “Good Vibrations Day,” our Ear Community Organization has been advocating for Ally’s Act, a federal piece of legislation ensuring private insurers cover Bone Anchored Hearing Systems & Cochlear Implants, for children & adults from birth to age 64! Yesterday, May 2nd, Ear Community’s lobbyists/advocates, Sean […]

04/18/25

The Ear Community Organization’s Board Members are an invaluable resource when it comes to microtia, atresia and craniofacial microsomia! At Ear Community, we are all on the same journey and are willing to help others who are in the same situation in our community!Ear Community’s Board members either have microtia, atresia or craniofacial microsomia, are […]

04/16/25

Melissa Tumblin, Founder of the Ear Community Organization, is proud to be a presenter at this year’s American Cleft Palate Craniofacial Association Meeting taking place in Palm Springs, CA along with the CARE Study Team, a research team Ear Community has proudly been collaborating with for the past five years! Our panel presentation, “Enhancing Craniofacial […]

03/26/25

Congratulations to Jaden Williams for being one of our Ear Community college scholarship recipients this year! Jaden was born with bilateral microtia and atresia, who grew up in an orphanage in China without a hearing aid, struggling to hear and reading people’s lips, making it difficult for him to keep up with his classmates in […]

03/04/25

Ear Community’s 2025 Microtia & Atresia Picnics are scheduled! Families travel from surrounding states & other countries just to come to our Ear Community picnics! Our priceless picnics are FREE to Microtia & Atresia families! Join us for lunch, share your journey, learn about your options, enjoy lots of fun entertainment, watch the kids play […]

03/04/25

In honor of World Hearing Day today, March 3, 2025, the Ear Community Organization was able to donate (1) Oticon Medical Ponto 5 Mini bone conduction hearing device and soft band headband to this sweet little boy, named Romeo, in Canada! Romeo is the proud recipient of a Ponto 5 Mini bone conduction hearing device, […]

01/30/25

December 30th, 2024 Cochlear, the global leader in implantable hearing solutions, is proud to announce that it has been named the number one most trustworthy company in the healthcare industry by Newsweek in its 2024 rankings of the World’s Most Trustworthy Companies. This prestigious recognition underscores Cochlear’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer-centricity. The […]

01/29/25

January 29, 2025 – (DURHAM, NC) – MED-EL USA, a pioneer in hearing implant technology, today announced that new and existing MED-EL hearing implant recipients can access a year of the Meludia online music training program at no cost. This offering underscores MED-EL’s commitment to music appreciation and access for people living with hearing loss. […]

11/15/24

November 14, 2024 – (DURHAM, NC) – MED-EL, a pioneer in hearing implant technology, today launched the 2025 IDEASforEARS competition in celebration of World Inventors Day. This global initiative invites young minds to step into the role of inventor, channeling their creativity to design groundbreaking solutions that could transform the lives of people with hearing […]

11/13/24

On November 9th, 2024, our Ear Community Organization’s 9th dedicated International Microtia and Atresia Awareness Day took place for our beautiful community! We had families, medical professionals, schools, hearing device companies and other organizations embrace our special day around the globe! The microtia and aural atresia community was embraced by many community’s all over the […]

11/08/24

Meet Zoey, a sweet 14 year old girl from San Antonio, Texas! Zoey was born with a congenital anomaly affecting her right ear, known as microtia and aural atreisa – where her outer ear and ear canal did not fully develop, causing hearing loss. Even though Zoey has always been interested in school and is […]

11/05/24

Alexander and Maggie Lang wanted to help give back to the community by supporting a nonprofit that not only was near and dear to their hearts, but one that would help children and adults in need. Alex was born without his right ear (microtia) and has hearing loss due to an underdeveloped ear canal (aural […]

10/03/24

September 6th-9th, 2023 What an exciting week being part of the 8th International Congress on Bone Conduction Hearing and Related Technologies that was hosted here in Denver, Colorado! Melissa Tumblin, the Founder of The Ear Community Organization, was one of the many educational presenters during the Congress on bone conduction hearing device technology. From ENTs […]

10/02/24

How one family is giving back to the microtia and atresia community through Ear Community and the arts!               Meet Lauren Hoyal! Lauren is the Children’s Art Director with the Thomaston Upson Arts Council (TUAC) in Georgia. Lauren had a vision of educating the community about a rare condition […]

09/26/24

September is Craniofacial Acceptance Month! This month, take the opportunity to spread awareness for those with cleft and craniofacial differences. In addition to spreading awareness, celebrate the researchers and doctors who are dedicated to craniofacial research, helping make the journey easier for all of us! Did you know Ear Community works on craniofacial microsomia research […]

09/16/24

September 2024 Congratulations to Collin Elmore for being one of our Ear Community college scholarship recipients this year! Collin was born with microtia and atresia of his right ear and grew up in Folsom, California. Collin’s family has always encouraged him to be a part of community, whether through hobbies or participating in school sports. […]

09/05/24

September 2024 Congratulations to Lucas Anmolsingh for being one of our Ear Community college scholarship recipients this year! Lucas was born with microtia and atresia of his right ear and is from Stewartsville, New Jersey. Growing up in a rural town, Lucas explains that the terms microtia and aural atresia were unknown to most. Lucas […]

08/29/24

August 2024 Congratulations to Isabella Cuadras for being one of our Ear Community college scholarship recipients this year! Isabella was born with microtia and atresia of her left ear and grew up in the Lake City, Florida area. Isabella says while while she was not confident with her little ear growing up, she has managed […]

08/29/24

August 2024 Congratulations to Sadie Hart for being one of our Ear Community college scholarship recipients this year! Sadie was born with microtia and atresia of her right ear and grew up Brentwood, Tennessee, attending high school in Nashville. Sadie says while her microtia and atresia does moderately affect how she hears, she has managed […]

08/09/24

Meet Kaylle Perez, a happy little 2nd grader living in North Carolina, attending Cabarrus County Schools! Kaylle was born with unilateral microtia and atresia of her right ear. With Kaylle being in elementary school now, surrounded by peers and sounds in the school classroom, she realized she was struggling to hear everything clearly, including in […]

08/06/24

The Ear Community announces it’s newest Board of Director Member, Alexander Lang. Board Members for the Ear Community Organization consist of members of the community that include individuals who were born with microtia and aural atresia, family members and medical professionals. “It is important for our community to be informed of all options for microtia […]

08/02/24

Live in the Barnesville area of Georgia? Would you like to see the children’s play called, “Finding Nemo Jr.”, helping spread awareness about microtia & atresia & raising funds benefiting the Ear Community Organization? This children’s theater play taking place on August 9th, 10th & 11th, will be directed by Lauren Hoyal, a member of […]

07/12/24

  Business Wire Fri, Jul 12, 2024, 6:16 AM MDT ASKIM, Sweden, July 12, 2024–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Oticon Medical announced today the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance of its first active transcutaneous bone conduction hearing system, the Sentio System. Sentio System delivers the proven benefits of the Ponto™ System – and more – in a […]

06/11/24

April 19th, 2024 Media Contact Christy LaPlante Public Relations Manager Cochlear Americas pr-cochlearamericas@cochlear.com In the United States, the Osia System is now cleared for children ages 5 and older The Osia System, which launched commercially in 2020, is indicated for people with conductive hearing loss, mixed hearing loss and single-sided sensorineural deafness (SSD)  The Osia […]

05/20/24

TODAY, May 20th, is Ear Community’s Birthday! Our organization is 14 years old! Ear Community is the first parent-driven nonprofit to serve the microtia and atresia community. Our organization is proud to have paved the way for our community with genetics research, research that will improve health care for our community for both the medical […]

04/30/24

Gothenburg 22 April 2024 Oticon Medical will celebrate the fourth annual Good Vibrations Day/Bone Anchored Awareness Day on May 3rd, 2024. This non-branded occasion was developed to raise awareness of bone conduction as an effective hearing treatment alternative for those with conductive, mixed, or single-sided hearing losses. Participation is open to all bone conduction device […]

04/05/24

Our Ear Community Organization was proud to exhibit at the 2024 EHDI (Early Hearing Detection and Intervention) Meeting held in Denver, CO this week! Our booth was busy with audiologists, therapists, educators, doctors, researchers and parents coming to our booth for information on microtia and atresia! This was Ear Community’s 6th time being a part […]

04/05/24

Pax’s Eyewear Fund is made possible by a sweet little boy named Pax who was born with microtia and atresia. Pax and his family know how important it is to help children have the eyeglasses and sunglasses they need, but glasses that can stay up when they are missing ears. Ear Community is grateful for […]

03/25/24

                      Thank you to Rotary Club of Broomfield for recognizing the wonderful work the Ear Community Organization does, both locally and globally! Yesterday, Ear Community, was awarded a grant by the Rotary Club of Broomfield that will go toward our Broomfield event in July, helping […]

03/15/24

On January 31, 2024, the Ear Community Organization was awarded the Charlie F. Cronheim Memorial Grant, by Reconstruct Together – a nonprofit organization that aims to sponsor established humanitarian missions in need of funding that serve the reconstructive needs of patients in communities around the world. Reconstruct Together’s Board of Directors honored Ear Community for […]

03/15/24

                          Ear Community hosts picnics every year around the world helping bring Microtia and Atresia families together. This year’s picnics will take place in the United States in Orlando, Florida/ Fullerton, California/ Calgary, Canada/ Edina, Minnesota/ Broomfield, Colorado/ New Orleans, Louisiana and Laval, […]

03/06/24

For the past eight years, Ear Community has been collaborating with Auregen Biotherapeutics for an ear of the future that would help children and adults born with microtia and atresia. Last fall, Auregen began clinical trials on 3D printed regenerated ears that would help individuals born with unilateral microtia. Auregen Bio is actively enrolling individuals […]

03/03/24

WANT BONE ANCHORED HEARING AIDS and COCHLEAR IMPLANTS COVERED BY PRIVATE INSURANCE? HERE’S HOW YOU CAN HELP ADVOCATE FOR ALLY’S ACT, H.R. 2439 and S. 1135 TO PASS! Are you tired of private insurance companies denying coverage for Osseointegrated Devices/BAHA or Cochlear Implants? Are you tired of insurance companies dictating who gets to hear and […]

03/03/24

February 5, 2024 Our Ear Community Organization would like to welcome our newest Board of Director Member, Joshua Shrader! Joshua and his family will also be hosting our 2025 Ear Community Microtia and Atresia picnic in Virginia! Please give Joshua a warm welcome! __________________________________________ Hi, my name is Joshua Shrader. I am 42 years old […]

03/02/24

The Ear Community Organization is proud to be recognized as one of the GreatNonprofits of 2024! Ear Community has been a recognized Great Nonprofit since 2016 and we are proud to continue helping make such an amazing impact for the Microtia and Atresia Community for nearly 14 years! ——————————————– For Immediate Release: Ear Community NAMED […]

03/02/24

November 20, 2023 Thank you to the Give An Ear Foundation for honoring me with the Legacy Award for the Microtia community of South Africa this weekend! Two of the very first picnics Ear Community hosted years ago helped bring our microtia families together in Johannesburg when there was no help or information for the […]

03/02/24

November 7, 2023 Ear Community is proud to help another child hear & obtain two bone anchored hearing devices during our week of awareness on November 7th! Meet Imogene! Imogene is a sweet 4 year old little girl from Minnesota! Now that Imogene is at an age where she can communicate better, she began turning […]

03/02/24

September 1, 2023 Ear Community had the opportunity to help another community member hear with a bone anchored hearing device after being denied by his insurance provider. Meet Jaytee! Jaytee was born w/bilateral microtia & atresia. Jaytee has struggled for the past 30 years with hearing loss in both of her ears, even though she […]

03/02/24

August 2023 Congratulations to Delaney Yates for being awarded our latest Ear Community college scholarship! Delaney was born with microtia and atresia of her right ear and grew up on a farm in Iowa. She has been involved with sports and volunteering and shows cattle through 4-H Club. Delaney has learned to advocate for herself […]

03/02/24

August 23, 2023 Welcome to Elizabeth Mazer! Liz has been a part of our organization for the past few years ever since her nephew, Barrett, was born with bilateral microtia and atresia. I have to say that Liz is an AMAZING person and I am so happy to have her in my life and to […]

03/02/24

June 13, 2023 Meet Noelle! Noelle is an amazing advocate in our community! She was born with Microtia and Atresia of her right ear. She has not had reconstructive surgery, nor is she aided with a hearing device. And yet, she is an amazing ROCK STAR! Many of us in our community know her as […]

01/15/24

            The Gross Family Foundation donated more than $18 million to 67 non-profits and charities in 2023, the most recipients ever in a single year for the Gross Family Foundation! “Jennifer, Jeff and I are pleased to continue our tradition of giving to organizations that provide immeasurable benefits to the […]

05/20/23

TODAY IS EAR COMMUNITY’S 13TH BIRTHDAY! Thirteen beautiful years of paving the way for Microtia and Atresia families, advocacy and awareness and so much more! On May 20th, 2010, I sat down at my laptop and decided to make a difference in the world by helping other families just like ours. We’ve come a long […]

05/13/23

During the first week of May, the CARE Study Research Team attended the ACPA, American Cleft Palate Association, conference in Raleigh, North Carolina! Our CARE Team has been working on our grant project for the past four years and was finally able to come together in person! Our research team did an amazing job at […]

05/10/23

May is Better Hearing and Speech Month! What better way to embrace this month of awareness than to help give back by helping someone in need with the gift of hearing! Meet Eddie! Eddie lives in Washington state and was born with Grade IV microtia and aural atresia. Early on during childhood, Eddie had four […]

04/27/23

Bone Anchored Awareness Day is coming up on May 3rd! Also known as “good vibrations day”! Bone Anchored Awareness Day is a day that our community recognizes bone conduction technology – the very technology that our community members benefit from in regards to the option for restoring conductive hearing loss, among other types of hearing […]

04/26/23

“Ally’s Act” is a National level bipartisan bicameral bill inspired by 13-year-old, Ally Tumblin, that would Expand Access to Specialized Hearing Devices through insurance Here’s how to advocate for this piece of legislation! On March 30th, 2023, Congressman Joe Neguse (D-CO) re-introduced Ally’s Act, H.R. 2439, along side Congressmen Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Mike Thompson […]

04/25/23

Ear Community hosts picnics every year around the world helping bring Microtia and Atresia families together. This year’s picnics will take place in the United States in San Mateo, California/ Raleigh, North Carolina/ Plano, Texas/ Brookline, Massachusetts/ Nashville, Tennessee/ and Hamilton, Ontario Canada! It is very exciting for many families! Everyone enjoys attending our picnics […]

04/14/23

        Capito Reintroduces Ally’s Act Legislation would require insurance providers to cover critical and life-altering hearing devices April 14th, 2023 CHARLESTON, W.Va. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) recently reintroduced Ally’s Act, bipartisan legislation that would ensure private insurance companies provide coverage for osseointegrated hearing devices (OIDs), including bone anchored hearing […]

04/11/23

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, March 30, 2023 Contact: Hannah Rehm Hannah.Rehm@mail.house.gov Rep. Neguse Reintroduces “Ally’s Act,” Bipartisan Bill Inspired By 13-Year-Old Constituent, to Expand Access to Specialized Hearing Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Joe Neguse (D-CO) announced the introduction of “Ally’s Act,” H.R. 2439, his bicameral, bipartisan legislation to ensure private insurance companies cover osseointegrated hearing […]

04/10/23

On January 30th, 2023, the Ear Community Organization launched a new hearing health care program, called Pax’s Ear Fund, that is helping give the gift of hearing in many ways! Since the launch of the new hearing health program, three children in the microtia and aural atresia community have already benefited from this wonderful fund! […]

03/08/23

Meet Emma! Emma is a sweet little girl who was born with microtia and aural atresia of her left ear, with varying degrees of bilateral hearing loss. Did I mention that she is also an amazing competitive dancer, enjoys listening to music and carrying on with her friends? Emma was in need of a hearing […]

03/03/23

Today is WORLD HEARING DAY! The theme for World Hearing Day is “Ear and Hearing Care for All”!   Hearing health care for the microtia and aural atresia community is very important! In honor of World Hearing Day and everyday – Ear Community helps give back to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community in […]

02/23/23

News provided by Cochlear Limited Feb 22, 2023, 08:27 ET Cochlear further supports Audio Streaming for Hearing Aids (ASHA) standard to enable direct streaming from Fire TV devices to a Cochlear™ hearing implant for the first time. LONE TREE, Colo., Feb. 22, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Ahead of International Cochlear Implant Day (February 25, 2023), Cochlear […]

02/02/23

    February 1st, 2023 — Pax’s Ear Fund is a hearing health reimbursement program offered through Ear Community that allows audiologists to be reimbursed for fitting/programming services when patients are denied coverage for this service by their insurance provider leaving them unable to pay the fee or high deductible at the time of the […]

01/30/23

Ear Community is proud to launch Pax’s Ear Fund Pax’s Ear Fund is a hearing health reimbursement program offered through Ear Community that allows audiologists to be reimbursed for fitting/programming services when patients are denied coverage for this service by their insurance provider leaving them unable to pay the fee or high deductible at the […]

01/17/23

        A special thank you to the William, Jeff and Jennifer Gross Family Foundation for it’s amazing support to the Ear Community Organization! I would like to share about a miracle that recently happened to our Ear Community Organization in December. Many know how much Ear Community means to me, as the […]

01/04/23

Here is a super cute video from Cochlear Americas about Cash, and why he enjoys being a Baha Start user! Cash’s family also happens to be one of our beautiful Colorado microtia and atresia families that my family has known for years as a part of our Ear Community. We are so happy for Cash […]

12/20/22

For Immediate Release: EAR COMMUNITY NAMED “2022 TOP-RATED NONPROFIT” by GreatNonprofits Award based on Community Recommendations Broomfield, Colorado  December 20, 2022 –The Ear Community announced today it has been named a “2022 Top-Rated Nonprofit” by GreatNonprofits, the leading website for community recommendations of charities and nonprofits. Since 2010, Ear Community has paved the way for […]

11/17/22

On Wednesday, November 9th, 2022, National Microtia and Atresia Awareness Day was embraced and celebrated throughout the world by promoting awareness and education about the rare congenital anomaly called Microtia and Aural Atresia. Microtia occurs when the outer ears do not fully develop during the first trimester of pregnancy. Aural Atresia occurs when the ear […]

11/09/22

November 9th, 2022 November 9th is National Microtia and Atresia Awareness Day, dedicated to spreading hope & knowledge concerning a rare congenital anomaly known as Microtia & Aural Atresia – when the ears do not fully develop during the 1st trimester of pregnancy. Microtia derives its name from the Latin terms for little ears or […]

09/28/22

On Thursday, September 22nd, 2022, Ear Community was invited on the Denver Mile High Living Show by Host Gina Belich to talk about why the Ear Community Organization was founded. Ear Community Founder and Executive Director, Melissa Tumblin, shared why she founded Ear Community after her youngest daughter, Ally, was born without her right ear […]

08/23/22

On Saturday, August 13th, 2022, Alan Raffauf (VP of Marketing) of Oticon Medical honored Melissa Tumblin of the Ear Community Organization, with the Ambassador Leadership Award in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, recognizing her for her tireless work in the D/HH community for nearly 13 years. Since 2011, Oticon Medical has brought a select group of advocates […]

06/28/22

On Saturday, June 25th, 2022, we had the honor of Congressman Joe Neguse joining us at our Colorado Ear Community picnic in Broomfield! Congressman Neguse was also finally able to meet the Tumblin family in person, especially Ally! Ally Tumblin wrote to Congressman Neguse in May of 2019 during Better Hearing and Speech Month, asking […]

05/27/22

                                      May is Better Hearing and Speech Month – a time to educate and promote awareness about hearing and speech! Meet Nicole Mazer and her sweet son, Barrett! When Barrett was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia, […]

04/27/22

              ASX Announcement 27 April 2022 1 University Avenue Macquarie University NSW 2109  AUSTRALIA www.cochlear.com Cochlear Limited, a global leader in implantable hearing solutions, agrees to acquire Oticon Medical for DKK 850million (approx.AUD170million) following Demant’s decision to exit its hearing implants business activities. As part of the transaction, Cochlear […]

04/27/22

      27.4.2022 08:01:11 CEST | Demant A/S | Inside information Company announcement no 2022-09 27 April 2022 Demant intends to divest its Hearing Implants business, while ensuring lifelong support of existing patients. Demant has negotiated an agreement with the intention to divest its Hearing Implants business, Oticon Me-dical, to Cochlear Limited for a […]

03/31/22

INTRODUCING – The Ponto 5 SuperPower by Oticon Medical! March, 31, 2022 _______________________________________________ Oticon Medical proudly reveals the newest member of the Ponto family – the Ponto 5 SuperPower, the newest powerful hero! – Small, powerful and packed with breakthrough technology, Ponto 5 SuperPower gives you constant access to clear, detailed, 360° sound for the […]

03/11/22

Meet nine-year-old Paula from Denver, Colorado! Paula was born with Microtia and Aural Atresia, leaving her with conductive hearing loss in her right ear. Originally from Mexico, Paula’s family moved to the United States in 2018. Now that Paula is nine, her parents noticed she seemed to be struggling more with her hearing loss. With […]

02/09/22

Meet Tamara from Scarborough, Ontario! Tamara is a sweet, happy little girl excited to be in school and learn all that she can! Tamara was born with Microtia and Atresia of her right ear. Now that Tamara is seven years old starting elementary school, Tamara noticed she was struggling to hear well in the school […]

02/09/22

    H.R. 477, Ally’s Act, is a bicameral/bipartisan federal bill that would ensure private insurers cover medically necessary bone-anchored hearing aids and cochlear implants for children and adults, ages birth through 64 years. Bone anchored hearing aids and cochlear implants address unique corrective requirements for specific forms of hearing loss, and are typically the […]

01/10/22

Somerset, NJ 1/5/2022 12:00:00 AM Introducing full SuperPower strength in the smallest SuperPower device ever available The FDA has cleared the new Ponto 5 SuperPower sound processor, which will be available for sale in spring 2022. This product marks the first time that the revolutionary open sound experience will be available in a bone anchored […]

01/07/22

Yesterday, January 6th, 2022, our community said goodbye to a legendary surgeon who specialized in Microtia repair, Dr Satoru Nagata. Dr. Nagata revolutionized microtia ear reconstruction through his own individual technique known as the “Nagata Technique”. His technique helped shorten the number of stages of surgery needed for rib graft surgery among many other improvements […]

11/20/21

  Saturday, November 20th, 2021 By Brooklyn Dance | bdance@prairiemountainmedia.com | Melissa Tumblin longs for the day that people with microtia and atresia are treated just like anyone else. Melissa’s daughter Ally was born without a right ear and uses a bone-anchored hearing aid to hear. For more than a decade, Melissa has dedicated her […]

11/10/21

                    On Tuesday, November 9th, 2021, the Ear Community Organization celebrated its 6th National Microtia Awareness Day, but this year was extra special! The Founders of the Ear Community Organization, Ally and Melissa Tumblin, wanted to make the awareness day more complete. The Tumblin Family originally […]

11/10/21

November 9th, 2021 Washington, D.C.— Today, Congressman Joe Neguse (D-CO), Congressman David McKinley (R-WV) Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) introduced a resolution calling for November 9th to be recognized as National Microtia and Atresia Awareness Day. Congressman Neguse is also championing legislation, titled Ally’s Act, named after his constituent Ally Tumblin, […]

10/13/21

Cochlear announces FDA approval and FDA clearance of first-of-its-kind Remote Care capabilities for Nucleus and Baha Systems Remote Assist allows remote programming, processor setting adjustments and counselling via a live video session Upcoming availability for Cochlear Nucleus 7, Kanso 2 and Baha 6 Max Sound Processors Part of Cochlear’s investment in Connected Care technology, enabling […]

09/23/21

Copenhagen, Denmark – September 15, 2021  More sound to the brain Oticon Medical is excited to announce the launch of Ponto 5 Mini – the first style in the new Ponto 5 family. With its revolutionary approach to feedback, this new sound processor takes the open sound experience, first introduced with the groundbreaking OpenSound NavigatorTM, […]

09/21/21

Meet Krystyl Wooten from San Jose, California! Krystyl was born with Microtia and Aural Atresia of her right ear. She is excited to embark on her college career through William Jessup University with an anticipation graduation date in 2025! While growing up, Krystyl says she has experienced some difficult times like not being able to […]

08/30/21

Meet Willard! Willard was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia and lives in Savannah, Georgia. Willard is 63 years old and has struggled all of his life with hearing loss. After visiting with an Otolaryngologist in 2020, he was informed about a bone anchored hearing device and how this hearing device could be surgically implanted […]

08/23/21

Meet Owen Poling, a Chinese-American from Lancaster, Ohio! Owen graduated from Bloom-Carroll High School this past May and is looking forward to attending Albion College this fall in Michigan. Owen was born with Microtia and Atresia of his right ear. In Owen’s application letter, he spoke about growing up over the years and enduring stares […]

05/18/21

Meet Leonardo, a sweet 4-year-old that lives in Denver, Colorado. Leo was born with Microtia and Aural Atresia of his left ear. After Leo didn’t pass his newborn hearing screening, it was suggested to his mother, Yocelin, that he would hear better with a bone anchored hearing device. When he was a baby, Yocelin tried […]

05/06/21

Two years ago (2019), during Better Hearing and Speech Month, Ally Tumblin brought home a homework assignment that gave her some options on how to help give back to the community. Some options included cleaning up the community you live in, volunteering with a local nonprofit along with the option to write to a local […]

04/29/21

In collaboration,The Brånemark Osseointegration Center together with Neoss and supported by The American College of Prosthodontists (ACP) and The European Association for Osseointegration (EAO) are proud to present the 1st Global Osseointegration Day, which honors Per-Ingvar Brånemark, father of osseointegration, and will be held annually on his birthday, May 3rd. May 3rd is meant to […]

04/26/21

Bone Anchored Awareness Day May 3rd will be the first ever annual Bone Anchored Awareness Day. Copenhagen 4/14/2021 12:00:00 AM Oticon Medical initiates this annually recurring awareness day “Good Vibrations” to celebrate bone anchored hearing as a treatment and to create more awareness about this treatment.Today over 250,000 people – from all over the globe […]

04/11/21

Please help make Ally’s Act the law, H.R. 477 and S. 41 Two years ago, during May 2019, Ally Tumblin, wrote a letter to Congressman Joe Neguse (D-CO) during Better Hearing and Speech Month as part of a community homework assignment, explaining how the hearing device she hears with is often not covered by private […]

03/10/21

On March, 10th, 2021, the Ear Community Organization welcomed it’s newest Advisory Board Member, George Scott. George comes to us as an Executive who has worked in Digital and Mobile Technologies related to sports for 20+ years. He became interested in supporting EarCommunity.org after being inspired by Ally’s story on CNN and all that she […]

03/08/21

– The Baha 6 Max Sound Processor has a fitting range of up to 55 dB SNHL in the same small size as the industry’s current 45 dB devices. – It is also the first bone conduction sound processor to offer direct streaming from Apple and Android devices, as well as many other new features. […]

02/08/21

By Brooklyn Dance | bdance@prairiemountainmedia.com | PUBLISHED: February 5, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. | UPDATED: February 5, 2021 at 5:29 p.m. BROOMFIELD, CO – February 5, 2021: Melissa Tumblin and daughter Ally, hold the letters to and from Joe Neguse. Colorado Rep. Joe Neguse reintroduced legislation in January titled Ally’s Act, a bill inspired by […]

02/08/21

Feb 2, 2021 Worry-free, safe magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with MED-EL cochlear, middle ear or bone conduction implants – now with lifetime guarantee! For immediate access to an MRI examination without surgery, discomfort or hearing downtime. February 02, 2021– (Innsbruck, Austria) – The innovative design of the implant magnets from MED-EL is completely safe during an […]

02/01/21

Meet Allan De Leon who is 2 years old and was born with Microtia and Atresia of his right ear, including Craniofacial Microsomia. Allan and his family live in Maryland after recently relocating from Guatemala. Allan’s family was unable to provide a permanent bone conduction hearing device of any kind for him due to financial […]

01/28/21

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) re-introduced Ally’s Act, bipartisan legislation that would ensure private insurance companies provide coverage for osseointegrated hearing devices (OIDs), including bone anchored hearing aids (BAHAs) and cochlear implants. OIDs are a type of hearing aid that benefit a wide range of hearing loss victims […]

01/28/21

January 27, 2021 Washington, D.C.—Today, Congressman Joe Neguse, announced the reintroduction of “Ally’s Act,” his bicameral, bipartisan legislation to require private insurance companies to cover osseointegrated hearing devices (“OIDs”), including bone anchored hearing aids (“BAHA”) and cochlear implants. The bill was inspired by Ally, an 11-year-old from Broomfield, Colorado, who was born without a right […]

01/12/21

Intelligent Sound Adapter 2.0 automatically detects, optimizes settings to match environment January 6, 2021 – (DURHAM, NC) – MED-EL USA, a leader in implantable hearing solutions, today announced the launch of the SAMBA 2, a next-generation audio processor for the BONEBRIDGE Bone Conduction System, which includes the recently launched BCI 602. BCI 602 is an […]

12/23/20

Christmas miracles do happen, even during a pandemic in 2020! Here is a heartwarming story about the love and advocacy of one West Virginia family for their son. Meet the Shear family! Katie and Andrew Shear’s son, JJ, was born this summer – a shining moment during this extraordinarily challenging year. Prior to JJ being […]

12/02/20

Experiencing a global public health emergency has prompted us all to do the very best we can to continue to support the communities we serve. During COVID-19, MED-EL has introduced a special program to provide prompt access to sound for candidates for a bone conduction system. We have found that training the recipient and family […]

11/26/20

by DANIELLE DINDAK  – Wednesday, November 25th 2020 CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WCHS/WVAH) — Parents will do anything to give their children a healthy and normal life, but for one Charleston family it has been an uphill battle. “You love them more than anything in the world and you’re willing to do anything for them,” Katie Shear […]

11/13/20

November 9th is National Microtia Awareness Day! Microtia is a congenital birth anomaly that occurs when one or both ears do not fully develop or are physically missing. Microtia is often accompanied by Aural Atresia – when the ear canals are underdeveloped or absent, resulting in hearing loss. Many children have associated craniofacial challenges, known […]

10/28/20

National Microtia Awareness Day is November 9th! Think of the number 9 as the shape of an ear. NMAD was established by the Ear Community Organization five years ago to help promote education and awareness about Microtia (missing and underdeveloped ears) & Aural Atresia (missing ear canals, resulting in hearing loss). Some of our children […]

10/28/20

Somerset 10/23/2020 12:00:00 AM Oticon Medical is pleased to announce the launch of its new blog, Hearing Implant Updates for Professionals, which will provide topics of interest to hearing healthcare and other medical professionals. Oticon Medical has launched a new blog, Hearing Implant Updates for Professionals. The blog has been designed as an added way […]

10/08/20

New public health campaign seeks to establish a simple health metric to define normal hearing to better monitor hearing loss, refer for treatment NEWS PROVIDED BY Cochlear Limited  Oct 07, 2020, 09:12 ET LONE TREE, Colo., Oct. 7, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Cochlear Limited (ASX: COH), the global leader in implantable hearing solutions, launches the Hearing 20/20 campaign, a […]

09/20/20

National Microtia Awareness Day is on November 9th! National Microtia Awareness Day started in 2016 and was established by our Ear Community Organization! The purpose of National Microtia Awareness Day is to help promote public awareness of Microtia & Atresia. Our hope is that families who have new babies born with Microtia & Atresia will […]

09/13/20

By Ripon Advance News Service  |  September 11, 2020   U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) on Sept. 8 proposed bipartisan legislation that would require private insurance companies to provide coverage for hearing aids. “Many of us take for granted the gift of hearing and how often we rely on our senses to effectively communicate with one another,” […]

09/13/20

September 09, 2020 Warren, Capito Introduce Ally’s Act Legislation would require insurance providers to cover critical and life-altering hearing aid devices Bill Text (PDF) | One-Pager (PDF) Washington, D.C. – United States Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) introduced Ally’s Act, bipartisan legislation that would ensure private insurance companies provide coverage for […]

08/24/20

The year 2020 has been a year of changes. It seems like every week there is something new going on in the world. Ear Community has been working tirelessly to continue supporting the Microtia and Atresia community throughout the uncertainty of this year. We were so thrilled when we received the application letter for our […]

08/20/20

Oticon Medical (A Demant Company)- A company founded on care Over 116 years ago, Hans Demant set out to help his wife, Camilla Louise Demant, who had hearing loss. Passionate to help his hearing-impaired wife, Hans Demant purchased a hearing instrument for her after learning that the Danish born Queen Alexandra of England was wearing […]

08/17/20

Many of you may not know about the history of Cochlear Americas! The inspiration for Cochlear’s mission came many years ago when a young Professor Graeme Clark saw his father struggle with hearing loss and proclaimed he wanted to “fix ears.” Professor Graeme Clark later went on to invent the first multi-channel cochlear implant! His […]

07/14/20

Cynthia S.’ son James was born with microtia and atresia. After a few solutions that did not work, Cynthia was at her wits’ end. Luckily, Cynthia was able to find pure joy of finally helping her child hear with the Cochlear™ Baha® Implant and Baha 5 Sound Processor. James was born with microtia and atresia. […]

07/10/20

2020 Ear Community Microtia and Atresia Summer Family Picnics Ear Community hosts picnics every year around the world helping bring Microtia and Atresia families together.  This year’s picnics will take place in the United States in Richmond, Virginia/ Houston, Texas/ Mesa, Arizona/ Nashville, Tennessee/ Palo Alto, California/ Cranberry, Pennsylvania and Hamilton, Ontario – Canada!  It is […]

06/04/20

Hearing loss in children July 18, 2019 – by Cara Lippitt Britney T.’s son, Myles, was born with an ear malformation at birth. After Myles was slipping behind with annunciating sounds, his parents acted fast to get him a Cochlear™ Baha® 5 Sound Processor. Eager to celebrate his sound processor, Britney got a tattoo that […]

05/20/20

Today, May 20, 2020, our Ear Community Organization turns 10 years old! IT’S BEEN A DECADE! Ten years ago today, months after my youngest daughter, Ally, was born with Grade III Microtia and Aural Atresia of her right ear, I sat down at my laptop and decided to start a support group for Microtia and […]

05/04/20

Meet Isabella, Ear Community’s newest bone anchored hearing aid recipient! Isabella lives in New Jersey with her family, originally moving from Venezuela. She is 8 years old and was born with bilateral Microtia and Aural Atresia. As Isabella started school, she began struggling with her hearing due to having hearing loss in both ears. As […]

03/24/20

Last week, on March 17th, this sweet little girl in Denver, CO received the gift of hearing from our Ear Community Organization! Meet Naomi Haagenson! Both of Naomi’s Cochlear Americas Baha 5 bone anchored hearing aids broke within one week of each other. Our organization saw the need to help Naomi and wanted to help […]

03/04/20

Ear Community is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that helps Microtia and Atresia families around the world. Ear Community is proud to host six family picnics in the United States this year! Microtia and Atresia, Hemifacial Microsomia, Goldenhar Syndrome, and Treacher Collins families…please join us! Our summer picnics provide a wonderful opportunity for everyone to come together […]

03/03/20

BONE CONDUCTION IMPLANTS March 3, 2020 – by Cara Lippitt The Osia System is a first-of-its-kind hearing implant system for people with SSD, conductive or mixed hearing loss. Centennial, Colo. (December 11, 2019) — Cochlear Limited (ASX: COH), the global leader in implantable hearing solutions, announces today the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance of the new Cochlear™ Osia® 2 System. […]

03/02/20

Ear Community would like to introduce you to Kuauhtemoc Gonzalez, a college Freshman at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Kuauhtemoc was born with Microtia and Atresia of his right ear as well as severe color blindness. Growing up in California with his parents and two younger brothers, Kuauhtemoc was surrounded by friends and family […]

02/24/20

The Ear Community Organization began advocating in February of 2019 for hearing device insurance coverage. There are many people who have come together to help advocate for hearing device insurance coverage with Ear Community. Both, Rachel (Ear Community Board Member) and Melissa Tumblin (Ear Community Founder) diligently worked together on this bill along the side […]

02/19/20

Broomfield Endorses Rep Neguse Bill to Ensure Health Insurance Coverage of Hearing Devices Ally’s Act seeks to increase access to specialized hearing devices Washington D.C.—The city and county of Broomfield, CO has pledged its support for Ally’s Act, a bipartisan bill that ensures private insurance companies provide coverage for osseointegrated hearing devices (OIDs) – including […]

02/19/20

The Ear Community Organization is pleased to introduce our first College Scholarship applicant of 2020, Owen Jarvis! Owen is a college freshman at Marshall University in West Virginia. Owen was born with Right Microtia and Atresia and he said that growing up looking ‘different’ – he was treated like an outsider. But he prevailed and […]

01/11/20

Please support Ally’s Act and make it the law! Ally’s Act, H.R. 5485 Ally’s Act, H.R. 5485 is a national level bill that was introduced on December 18th, 2019 ensuring that private insurance companies provide coverage for osseointegrated hearing devices (“OIDs”), including Bone Anchored Hearing Aids (“BAHA”) and Cochlear Implants (“CIs”). So many of us have had […]

12/31/19

AND, THAT’S A WRAP FOR 2019! HAPPY NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE AS WE WELCOME 2020! As we take a look back at all that our Ear Community Organization did in 2019, we made a HUGE positive impact on our community both here in the US and around the world. We kicked off the year with […]

12/29/19

U.S. Rep. Joe Neguse advocates for insurance coverage Ally Tumblin cradles her cat Chai Dec. 18 at her Broomfield home. (Photo: Jennifer Rios / Broomfield Enterprise) By JENNIFER RIOS | jrios@prairiemountainmedia.com | Broomfield Enterprise PUBLISHED: December 20, 2019 at 2:53 pm | UPDATED: December 20, 2019 at 3:05 pm Ally Tumblin, a 10-year-old Broomfield girl who was born without her right ear […]

12/20/19

December 20, 2019  Press Release Washington, D.C.—Today Congressman Joe Neguse, who represents Colorado’s 2nd Congressional District and serves as a member of House Leadership, introduced legislation, co-lead by Congressman David McKinley (R-WV) and Congressman Mike Thompson (D-CA), to ensure that private insurance companies provide coverage for osseointegrated hearing devices (“OIDs”), including bone anchored hearing aids (“BAHA”) […]

12/17/19

Optimized active transcutaneous technology with award-winning design available early 2020 December 11, 2019 – (DURHAM, NC) – MED-EL USA announced today the launch of the BCI 602, the second generation implant for the revolutionary BONEBRIDGE Bone Conduction Implant System at OSSEO2019: the 7th International Congress on Bone Conduction Hearing and Related Technologies in Miami Beach, Fla. […]

12/13/19

The Osia System is a first-of-its-kind hearing implant system for people with SSD, conductive or mixed hearing loss News provided by Cochlear Limited Dec 11, 2019, 08:00 ET CENTENNIAL, Colo., Dec. 11, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Cochlear Limited (ASX: COH), the global leader in implantable hearing solutions, announces today the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) […]

11/11/19

November 9th is National Microtia Awareness Day! Microtia is a congenital birth defect that occurs when one or both ears do not fully develop or are physically missing. Microtia is often accompanied by Aural Atresia – when the ear canals are underdeveloped or absent, resulting in hearing loss. Many children have associated craniofacial challenges, known […]

11/11/19

Contributed by Debbie Clason, staff writer, Healthy Hearing Last updated November 8, 2019 Microtia is a rare birth defect in which the external ear is not completely developed. It affects about one of every 5,000 to 7,000 babies born annually. Microtia is a rare condition that causes missing or underdeveloped ears.  Microtia usually occurs with atresia, also known […]

11/01/19

On Saturday, September 21st, 2019, the Ear Community Organization and it’s Founder, Melissa Tumblin, were spotlighted in a presentation at the Stanford Medicine X Change conference, presented by well respected community leader and entrepreneur, Liz Presson, Founder and CEO of Pursuit. There’s some serious power behind female patient advocates and is a topic that @lizpresson […]

10/17/19

Ear Community is so very happy to introduce our newest Cochlear Americas Baha 5 recipient, William Shafer, a sweet 3-year-old who lives in Arizona with his parents Jennifer and Benjamin; as well as his three siblings. When William was born, his parents soon discovered that he had a condition called Treacher Collins Syndrome. This condition […]

10/01/19

National Microtia Awareness Day is on November 9th! We look forward to helping raise awareness with so many of you everywhere on National Microtia Awareness Day! The purpose of National Microtia Awareness Day is to help promote public awareness about Microtia and Atresia. As the mother of a child who has Microtia and Atresia, and […]

10/01/19

Ear Community is pleased to introduce you to the beautiful Gabrielle E. Ayala-Montgomery, our second College Scholarship applicant for the year! Gabrielle reached out to us this Summer and shared a little with us about her desire to become a lawyer. Gabrielle was born with Microtia and Aural Atresia of her left ear as well […]

10/01/19

Often times Ear Community works with various early intervention services, and other professionals who support children with Microtia and Atresia. This past Summer, a school nurse, Danielle Vukadinovich, reached out to us in an effort to help one of the students at the school she works at. Brian Campos Valladares, a 9-year-old boy with Bilateral […]

10/01/19

Ear Community would like to extend a special thank you to UPS of Kentucky and to Melissa and James McClellan for their generous donation. James McClellan works for UPS and his family decided to apply for a grant through his employer for Ear Community on behalf of their son, Jamison, who has Microtia and Atresia. […]

09/21/19

September 19th and 20th, 2019 – On September 19th, Founder and Executive Director of the Ear Community Organization, Melissa Tumblin, met with Congressmen Mike Thompson (D-CA) and David McKinley (R-WV), both of the Congressional Hearing Health Caucus, and Congressman Joe Neguse (D-CO), from Melissa’s home state, to advocate for hearing device insurance coverage for bone […]

08/20/19

Ear Community is honored to introduce you to an extraordinary young man named, Josh Brodie, our first college scholarship recipient for 2019!  Josh was born in China and adopted by his parents 16 years ago. When Josh was growing up, a surgeon suggested he look into getting prosthetic ears for his bilateral Microtia and Atresia.  […]

08/07/19

                                      Ear Community is pleased to introduce you to Ryle Austin Rabaya who lives in the Philippines with his mother, Arlyn, and his father. Austin is only one year old, his birthday was in June. He was […]

08/07/19

In the early days of 2012, I knew nothing about Microtia and Atresia.  The day my daughter, Rosalee, was born changed all of that.  Rosalee was born via c-section.  After she was born, my husband went with the nurses to check her, count fingers and toes, all the things.  It was then that they noticed […]

07/31/19

On Saturday, July 20th, 2019, Vanderbilt University Medical Center hosted the 4th Annual Microtia and Atresia educational conference at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital. We had nearly 100 parents and individuals join us this year at our MAC (Microtia Atresia Clinic) conference. Attendees learned about all of the options available for Microtia and Atresia and […]

07/31/19

Nashville, TN On Saturday, July 20th, the Ear Community Organization and Vanderbilt University Medical Center’s Microtia and Atresia Clinic hosted their 4th Annual Microtia and Atresia picnic together with nearly 200 attendees. Everyone enjoyed a lovely picnic day at the Vanderbilt University recreation center where the kids enjoyed getting their faces painted, balloon art, a […]

07/12/19

            On Wednesday, July 10th, Ear Community Board Member Rachel Songy met with Congressman David McKinley and his Deputy Chief Of Staff, Chris Buki to discuss bone anchored hearing device insurance coverage. Rachel shared with them that she was born with Microtia and Atresia and requires the use of a […]

06/26/19

Wednesday – June 26th, 2019                       Ear Community Founder, Melissa Tumblin (and her children Hailey and Ally) along with Samantha Sclafani (and her children Wyatt and Tatum) had the opportunity to meet with Drs. Jon and Christine Seidman of Seidman Labs at Harvard Medical School […]

05/30/19

Ear Community is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that helps Microtia and Atresia families around the world. Ear Community is proud to host six family picnics in the United States this year! Microtia and Atresia, Hemifacial Microsomia, Goldenhar Syndrome, and Treacher Collins families…please join us! Our summer picnics provide a wonderful opportunity for everyone to come […]

05/30/19

In 2009, Melissa Tumblin’s daughter, Ally, was born with her right ear only partially formed with no sign of an obvious ear canal. Diagnosed with microtia and atresia, Melissa was frustrated and confused by the lack of information and support available to her family. Read how Melissa’s passion to find answers and fight for her […]

05/14/19

May 13, 2019 New Oticon Medical Ponto 4 Brings Open and Balanced Sound Experience to Bone Anchored Users For the First Time Share: Groundbreaking Sound Processor Is The Smallest Bone Anchored Device On The Market SOMERSET, NJ   May 13 – Oticon Medical announced today that it has obtained 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration […]

05/08/19

On Thursday, May 2nd, in Denver, CO, Alyssa Tumblin, Co-Founder of the Ear Community Organization, was honored as a HearStrong Champion by President, Ed Keller, of the HearStrong Foundation. Ally was recognized for being an amazing advocate for helping educate other children who also have hearing loss and helping them realize that they are not […]

05/08/19

        EMBARGOED UNTIL MAY 1, 2019 AT 9:00 AM ET Media Contacts Renee Oehlerking Leslie Humbel Cochlear Americas Edelman 303-264-2104 312-729-1781 roehlerking@cochlear.com leslie.humbel@edelman.com Survey reveals hearing loss can significantly affect relationships and families in the U.S. State of Hearing Report highlights the physical, emotional and societal challenges of hearing loss Centennial, Colo. […]

04/23/19

Sometimes, children are born without one or both ears due to a congenital birth defect, known as Microtia. Hearing loss can also be associated due to underdeveloped or absent ear canals, known as Aural Atresia. In addition to Microtia and Atresia, some children may also be born with facial challenges, where one side of the […]

04/08/19

Meet Karl Walsh, a little boy who was born with Microtia of his left ear along with hearing loss due to Aural Atresia. As Karl’s speech and vocabulary came in over the years, Karl’s mom, Gertie Walsh, began to realize that her son was struggling with his hearing. Gertie did her research and discovered that […]

03/07/19

The Ear Community Organization had another successful year at the EHDI (Early Hearing Detection Hearing) Meeting in Chicago this week! This was Ear Community’s fourth time being an exhibitor at EHDI and the only organization to educate on educate about all options for Microtia and Atresia and on Microtia and Atresia in general. We helped […]

02/14/19

Quinn “Twinkles” Marie Kougl was three years old, full of sass and attitude, and was born with Treacher Collins Syndrome. Quinn enjoyed playing with her big sister, Nora, and her big brother, Cody, everyday. Quinn was known by many through her family and friends, and the Tour Of Kindness where her mom, Justine, and Quinn would […]

02/14/19

Ear Community is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that helps Microtia and Atresia families around the world. Ear Community is proud to host six family picnics in the United States this year! Microtia and Atresia, Hemifacial Microsomia, Goldenhar Syndrome, and Treacher Collins families…please join us! Our summer picnics provide a wonderful opportunity for everyone to come together […]

02/05/19

Ear Community is honored to introduce you to Eisen Witcher, a local hero who lives along the East coast of Florida with his lovely wife, Jessica, and their adorable son, Izaak. Eisen was born with grade 3 Microtia and Atresia of his left ear. When he was only three years old, he began the journey […]

02/03/19

On, Saturday night, January 26th, Dr. Leslie Gonsette of the Alaska Hospitalist Group, hosted The Community Wide Medical Staff Ball in Anchorage. The physician’s ball was a hit thanks to the collaborations of Providence Alaska Medical Center, Alaska Regional Hospital, Mat-Su Regional Medical Center and Alaska Native Medical Center! Over 180 people attended with nearly […]

01/30/19

I will always remember the day when I met Dianne Goberis. I was a scared mom trying to advocate for my youngest daughter, Ally, who was born with Microtia and hearing loss (due to Aural Atresia). I was looking for a preschool program that would provide my daughter with the help she needed as a […]

01/02/19

Meet Duong, a very sweet little boy who lives in Hanoi, Vietnam who was born with Microtia and Atresia of both of his ears. Duong is almost 3 and lives with his mother, Co, his father, and other family members where they have fought to find resources to help Duong hear his best and have […]

12/31/18

Here is a beautiful story about a professional artist, named Priscila Soares, who creates art that tells the stories about real people who have hearing loss. This year, in recognition of National Microtia Awareness Day, Priscila created an art piece called “Ally is Looking Out for Microtia” – inspired by Ear Community Founder Melissa Tumblin’s daughter, […]

11/21/18

Meet Hazel Shelton, a sweet little 4.5 year old girl who was born with Microtia and Atresia.  Recently, Hazel upgraded to a new hearing device just before moving with her family from the United States to live in the UK.  When it came time for Hazel to upgrade her hearing device, she and her family […]

11/15/18

The months of November and December are the most important months for nonprofits as these are the giving months. Please help support our Ear Community Organization as your charity of choice by making a donation before the end of this year. There are many ways that you can donate: – AmazonSmile is helping give back […]

11/12/18

On Friday, November 9th, 2018, children and adults along with their families, teachers and schools, medical professionals, and many medical facilities and universities all embraced our third annual National Microtia Awareness Day all over the world!  Families everywhere were excited to raise awareness and help educate about Microtia and Atresia at schools through classroom presentations […]

11/08/18

Ear Community is thrilled to introduce you to Estefany Martinez Hernandez, an 8 year old little beauty who lives with her mother in South Carolina.  Earlier this year, Estefany moved to the United States from Honduras and has had an uphill battle ever since. Estefany was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia as well as […]

11/04/18

National Microtia Awareness Day is on November 9th! We look forward to helping raise awareness with so many of you everywhere on National Microtia Awareness Day!   The purpose of National Microtia Awareness Day is to help promote public awareness about Microtia and Atresia.  As the mother of a child who has Microtia and Atresia, and the […]

10/30/18

On October 26th, 2018, country singer, Luke Bryan, wore our Ear Community Microtia awareness wrist band during his concert in Detroit! Our support group member, Katie Davison, gave it to him at his concert and he put our awareness wrist band on!  Katie stated, “Yes!!! That’s Luke Bryan wearing one of the Microtia bracelets!!! We […]

10/30/18

World’s first active bone conduction implant coming to the U.S. market in 2018 BONEBRIDGE Bone Conduction Hearing Implant System from MED-EL USA (Photo: Business Wire) July 24, 2018 10:38 AM Eastern Daylight Time DURHAM, N.C.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–MED-EL USA announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted de novo clearance for the BONEBRIDGE™ bone […]

10/18/18

In recognition of National Microtia Awareness Day, The Ear Community Organization and the Tumblin Family is honored to discover that Priscila Soares, (a professional artist in California) has created a beautiful art piece of a little girl with Microtia and Atresia, named “Ally is looking out for Microtia” to represent the Tumblin’s daughter, Ally, and […]

09/20/18

Meet Myles Tankersley from Moblie, Alabama.  Myles is four years old and was born with Microtia and Atresia of his right ear.  Recently, Myles’ mom, Britney Tankersley, began to question why her son wasn’t speaking as much and noticed that Myles had some delays in his speech.  Since birth, Myles has been to all of […]

09/13/18

Ear Community is pleased to introduce Rachel Ciarkowski. Rachel is a first-year student in Physical Therapy at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. Rachel was born with Microtia and Atresia of her left ear. She has not had reconstructive surgery and is unaided.  Rachel enjoys challenging herself and believes in living the dream. When she […]

09/11/18

On September 11th, 2018, Ear Community Founder, Melissa Tumblin, traveled to the Marion Downs Center in Denver to visit with Dr. Sandra Gabbard (audiologist and President/CEO of the Marion Downs Center) to donate (4) gently used hearing devices to help needy children and adults hear better. (2 bone conduction hearing devices, 1 cochlear implant, and […]

09/11/18

BIG NEWS for our Ear Community Organization and the Microtia and Atresia community – Genetic research….here we come! On August 30th, 2018, the Ear Community Organization received amazing news from Dr. Jon Seidman of Harvard University and of Seidman Labs (at Harvard), that the grant application that was submitted to conduct genetic research on Microtia […]

09/07/18

Meet James Welsh of Roselle, Illinois, a freshman entering his first year of college at Bradley University in Peoria, IL.  James has proven that he comes from a long line of hard-working people. James was born with Microtia and Atresia of his right ear, and even though he has struggled, his hearing loss and Microtia […]

08/16/18

Thank you to all of the families, medical professionals, and to our sponsors who were a part of our Ear Community picnics this year (2018)! Ear Community board members hope that you enjoyed our events and that you were able to learn about the different surgical techniques (Rib Graft and Medpor and canalpasty/atresiaplasty), prosthetic ears, […]

08/01/18

Oticon Medical, a global company in implantable hearing solutions and a member of one of the world’s largest groups of hearing healthcare companies, today announced that John Sparacio has been named as President, Oticon Medical US. (Photo: Business Wire) July 30, 2018 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time SOMERSET, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Oticon Medical, a global company in […]

08/01/18

Co-Founders of Ear Community, Hailey (age 11) and Ally (age 8.5) Tumblin and our Ear Community Organization are so excited and proud to be donating toys to the Vanderbilt Microtia and Atresia Clinic! Hailey and Ally are wearing their “Microtia Kids Rock” t-shirts in this picture and are surrounded by lots of NEW toys that […]

06/19/18

This January, the Columbine Figure Skating Club in Colorado was awarded the Prudential “Building Bridges” grant that enabled CFSC to introduce the sport of figure skating to the deaf and hard of hearing community.  Ashley Mikelsen, one of Columbine Figure Skating Club’s coaches, who is deaf, wanted to introduce D/HH children to the sport of figure […]

06/18/18

The Ear Community Organization hosts multiple Microtia and Atresia summer family picnics each summer in the United States and in other countries.  Since 2011, the organization has hosted nearly 50 family and professional events that help educate families on all of the options for Microtia and Atresia, bringing them together to share experiences and so […]

06/14/18

                        The Ear Community Organization is one of the many organizations who is an Alliance Member with the HLAA (Hearing Loss Association of America) that help bring community’s together to help raise funds to support loved ones who have hearing loss during their walks.  […]

06/14/18

Happy 114th Birthday to Oticon! ❤️👂🎉🎂🍾🥂🎈🎉🎁👂❤️ Hearing device technology is absolutely amazing and it is even more amazing at how many lives these very hearing devices from Oticon and Oticon Medical that have improved the lives of so many! THANK YOU SO MUCH! 114 years ago Hans Demant set out to help his wife, Camilla Louise […]

05/01/18

Stick. Click. Hear. To view all videos on this page, please visit:  http://www.medel.com/us/adhear The hearing solution you have been looking for has arrived. ADHEAR. This revolutionary bone conduction system is an effortless treatment option for people with conductive hearing loss. The system is non-surgical and will amaze you with its performance, ease-of-use and wearing comfort. Meet […]

05/01/18

DURHAM, N.C.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–May 1, 2018–MED-EL USA, a leading provider of hearing implant solutions, today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared the next generation of non-surgical bone conduction hearing technology: ADHEAR. This innovation is a non-surgical bone conduction solution for conductive hearing loss. Any problem in the outer or middle ear […]

04/12/18

Ear Community is thrilled to introduce Michael Mitrovich.  Michael is only one year old, and has already had to fight some battles in his short time on this Earth.  He was born very tiny (only 4 pounds!) and was diagnosed with IUGR which is a whole slew of complications including not growing at a normal […]

04/12/18

Meet Sesethu Myakade from South Africa.  Sesethu is 12 years old and was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia. While she is surrounded by much love from her family, she has lost both of her parents in recent years and lives with her Aunt now.  Sesethu struggles to hear her family and friends communicating and […]

04/11/18

            On Monday, March 19th, 2018, Melissa Tumblin, Founder and Executive Director of the Ear Community Organization, was awarded the 2018 Family Leadership Award for EHDI Excellence in Denver, Colorado. Melissa Tumblin is an advocate for promoting educational and public awareness about Microtia/Atresia (M/A) and hearing loss as prompted by […]

04/11/18

                    On March 21st, 2018, Ear Community board members, Melissa Tumblin and Scott Newcomb, raised awareness about Microtia and Atresia at the state capital here in Denver, Colorado.

03/08/18

Ear Community is proud to announce our summer picnic locations for 2018. California Ear Community Picnic Sacramento, California Date:  Saturday, June 23rd, 2018 Time:  11AM to 3PM RSVP to Heidi at:  EarCommunityCaliforniaPicnic@gmail.com Texas Ear Community Picnic El Paso, Texas Date:  Saturday, July 21st, 2018 Time:  11AM to 3PM RSVP to Heidi at:  EarCommunityELPasoPicnic@gmail.com Tennessee Ear […]

03/02/18

On Monday, February 26th, 2018, Ear Community members went before the FDA during a listening session to share our stories about Microtia and Atresia, asking for any newer technology for ears to be approved sooner than later. We shared our stories of worry, fear, concern, bullying, job discrimination, surgical complications, low self esteem and lack […]

01/22/18

January 22, 2018 Media Contact Renee Oehlerking Cochlear Americas 303-264-2104 roehlerking@Cochlear.com The new non-surgical bone conduction wearing option is designed for children who are not yet eligible or ready for an implant but need the first step to hearing Centennial, Colo. (January 22, 2018) – Cochlear Limited (ASX: COH), the world leader in implantable hearing solutions, […]

12/24/17

Here is a warm story for the holidays…helping share the joy of being able to come together with other families who are in the same situation with Microtia and Atresia and realizing that you are not alone.  This is what Ear Community is all about and how our board members can also help other families. […]

11/22/17

On Thursday, November 9th, 2017, the Ear Community Organization celebrated it’s Second Annual National Microtia Awareness Day that took place throughout the United States.  Families from all over were excited to raise awareness and help educate about Microtia and Atresia at schools, parties, the work place, and more.  Many medical professionals from Microtia and Atresia […]

11/22/17

Someone once asked Melissa Tumblin, Founder and Executive Director of Ear Community, how can I help you?  Melissa responded, “I would like to help children who are deaf and hard of hearing, hear better.”  Melissa explained how she and her husband, Brent, inquired about a hearing device for their own daughter when she was born, […]

11/16/17

On Wednesday, November 15th, 2017, at 6pm in Broomfield, Colorado, the Ear Community Organization was fortunate to bring families and their children together from a local elementary school to view the prescreening of the movie, “Wonder.”  Thanks to an anonymous donor, Ear Community was given the opportunity to buyout two theaters for families with children […]

11/16/17

On Tuesday, November 14th, 2017, Ear Community was one of nearly 40 foundations and advocates from all over the country who joined together for the 1st Kids First Patient User Workshop meeting at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health.  Representatives from the attending nonprofits shared their thoughts and […]

11/02/17

National Microtia Awareness Day is just 1 week away, November 9th! We look forward to helping raise awareness with so many of you all over the world, even though our awareness day is a National Day here in the United States. Everyone is welcome to join together just like so many did last year, everywhere. […]

11/02/17

AudiologyOnline: Interview with Melissa Tumblin November 1, 2017 Question What is National Microtia Awareness Day?  How can audiologists support this initiative? Answer Melissa Tumblin: National Microtia Awareness Day is November 9th each year in the United States.  It started in 2016. The purpose of National Microtia Awareness Day to help promote public awareness of microtia and atresia.  As the mother […]

10/10/17

Meet Naven R. Osic.  Navin is a five-year-old boy who was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia. Naven lives with his mother, Donna and step-father in a small room in the Philippines.  When Donna was pregnant with Naven, she made sure to follow all her doctor’s orders, and be very careful because she wanted her […]

10/09/17

National Microtia Awareness Day is coming up on November 9th!  This is a day for children and adults (and their families) who were born with Microtia and Atresia.  Many schools across the nation will be participating and helping raise awareness with their students.  Parents will be visiting classrooms, speaking about Microtia (underdeveloped or missing outer […]

09/18/17

18 September 2017 Today, Cochlear, the global leader in bone conduction hearing solutions, announced the commercial availability of the new Cochlear™ Baha® SoundArc – a stylish, comfortable and effective device that will allow people to hear like never before. The Baha SoundArc is a new hearing solution for people who live with conductive hearing loss, mixed […]

09/12/17

September 11, 2017 by The Baha Blog administrator Meet the Team The Baha® 5 and Baha® 5 Power sound processors are developed, designed and shipped from Sweden worldwide, but did you know they are also manufactured and assembled here too? The concept, design, development, testing, manufacturing, packing and logistics are all done under one roof! Meet some […]

08/15/17

Stephen Weiss, a CPA in Gwynedd Valley, Pennsylvania was excited to upgrade his current hearing device to a newer model. When Stephen upgraded, he wanted to donate his current hearing device to a charity organization where his hearing device could go on to help someone else hear better. After receiving his new Oticon Medical Ponto […]

08/02/17

Ear Community is honored to introduce everyone to our latest Oticon Medical Ponto 3 Superpower hearing device recipient, adorable Kavya Sharma! Kavya is almost two years old and lives in New Delhi, India with her father Ajay and mother Savita. Kavya was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia, as well as Hemifacial Microsomia and a […]

07/28/17

Hi Everyone! Our National Microtia Awareness Day bracelets are now available for purchase through our organization’s website at:  www.EarCommunity.org/donate  This is a fund raiser for our organization.  We have a secure link for making a credit card donation.  In the DESCRIPTION LINE, (when you make a donation at our donation link), you can briefly put what you […]

07/28/17

Hi Everyone! Our National Microtia Awareness Day items are now available for purchase through our organization’s website at:  www.EarCommunity.org/donate  This is a fund raiser for our organization.  We have a secure link for making a credit card donation.  In the DESCRIPTION LINE (when you make a donation at our donation link), you can briefly put […]

07/06/17

by Matt Batcheldor | Thursday, Jun. 8, 2017, 10:16 AM Having a child born without an external ear or ear canal can be a scary and confusing experience for parents, and finding medical care for the rare condition has meant having to travel to several distant medical centers for treatment options. But now the Vanderbilt Bill Wilkerson Center […]

06/02/17

Ear Community is excited to share this sweet story about a little boy named Malosi Sualua who was born with Left Microtia and Atresia.  Malosi is 4 and lives in Laguna Beach, CA with his two older sisters and parents, Heidi and Leie.  Malosi means “strength” in Samoan and his mother, Heidi, says that the […]

04/05/17

Karen Smith, Executive Director of the Broomfield Community Foundation, is retiring this fall.  Karen was my mentor who guided me and taught me how to run a nonprofit organization, how to run our Ear Community Organization. I will never forget the day when I met with her to tell her about my passion for wanting […]

04/05/17

Ear Community is thrilled to introduce you to Joan Yirenkyi.  Joan is a beauty at 27 years old and lives in Greensboro, North Carolina with her family.  She was born with Treacher Collins Syndrome along with Microtia and Atresia of her left ear and other birth defects.  Being born with craniofacial abnormalities such as Treacher […]

04/05/17

Please meet one of our cutest Ear Community members, Daniel Alejandro, from Mexico.  Daniel was born on July 14th 2014 to his wonderful parents Patricia and Daniel.  From the first moment of his precious life, he was admitted into the neonatal intensive care unit and stayed there for an agonizing two months.  During that time, […]

03/13/17

Ear Community Organization Timeline Some may wonder how does a nonprofit get started.  Here is the timeline story of how the Ear Community Organization became a nonprofit organization after beginning as an online support group. September 2009, Melissa Tumblin’s daughter was born and she couldn’t find the answers she was looking for about why her child […]

03/10/17

AudiologyOnline News Release The mission of AudiologyOnline is to enhance the quality of life for the patients and clients in the care of the professionals we serve. We support this mission by: Providing the most relevant, convenient, and economical continuing education opportunities presented and authored by the leading experts in their respective professions to enhance […]

02/22/17

Ear Community is proud to introduce Mazie Herzing, our newest Baha recipient!  She was born last July and diagnosed with Microtia and Atresia of her right ear and Hemifacial Microsomia.  She lives with her big sister, twin brother, and parents Carly and Shelley in Richmond, Virginia, USA.  When Mazie was first diagnosed, her parents were […]

02/20/17

2017 Ear Community Microtia and Atresia Summer Family Picnics Ear Community hosts picnics every year around the world helping bring Microtia and Atresia families together.  This year’s picnics will take place in the United States in Annapolis, Maryland/ Austin, Texas/ Broomfield, Colorado/ Nashville, Tennessee/ Ardsley, New York/ and Fort Pierce, Florida!  It is very exciting for many […]

01/19/17

We are excited to introduce you to Raheeg Abdelrahman, a lovely four-year-old girl who lives in Sudan with her younger twin siblings, her mother, and her father Eltahir.  She was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia, her father said that they couldn’t find a hearing device in Sudan so they traveled two days to Egypt […]

11/23/16

On Wednesday, November 9th, 2016, the Ear Community Organization launched and celebrated the very first National Microtia Awareness Day that took place throughout the United States.  Families from all over were truly excited to finally have a national day to celebrate, helping promoting awareness and education about Microtia and Atresia.  In fact, many amazing moments […]

11/18/16

Meet Astrid De La Cruz Chinchilla from Fairfax, Virginia.  Astric is a beautiful 13 year old girl who was born with grade 3 Microtia and Atresia of her right ear originally from Guatemala.  Astrid loves being around her friends and enjoys school, but is struggling with hearing everyone in conversations.  Astrid’s mother, Maria, is very […]

11/04/16

Interview with Melissa Tumblin, Founder of Ear Community AudiologyOnline: Congratulations on getting November 9 officially recognized as National Microtia Awareness Day.  Why was having a national day for microtia awareness important to you? Melissa Tumblin: It is the intention of Microtia Awareness Day to help promote public awareness.  As the mother of a child who has […]

10/21/16

MICROTIA AWARENESS DAY – November 9 MICROTIA AWARENESS DAY November 9th is dedicated to spreading hope and knowledge concerning a congenital birth defect,which derives its name from the Latin terms for little ears. Mark the calendar for Microtia Awareness Day for November 9th and think of the number 9 as the shape of an ear. Approximately […]

10/19/16

The most powerful family of abutment-level processors In bone anchored hearing when it comes to audibility and understanding, power is everything. That’s why we are proud to present Ponto 3, the world’s most powerful abutment-level sound processor family. Ponto 3 gives you premium sound quality – even if you have a larger hearing loss. Find […]

10/07/16

Meet Afsheen Fathima, a beautiful little girl from India, who now lives with her mother and father in Henrico, Virginia (USA).  Afsheen is now 2.5 years old who was born with Microtia and Atresia of her left ear.  She was also born with scoliosis.  Afsheen is a sweet little girl who is excited to begin […]

08/23/16

Meet Cailin O’Hern from Richmond Hill, Georgia. Cailin just graduated from the twelfth grade as a home-schooled student. Cailin was born with Microtia and Atresia of her right ear. Cailin says that having Microtia and Atresia was challenging for her over the years as she often felt awkward and self-conscious when asked about her ear. […]

08/16/16

Meet little Arkin Silutan Lerio, a 10 month old adorable baby boy from Las Pinas City in the Philippines.  Arkin was born with grade III bilateral Microtia and Atresia.  When Arkin was two months old, Arkin’s mom, Jhoan Silutan Hernandez, took him to an ENT specialist so that he could have an ABR hearing test […]

08/09/16

Meet Meghan Barr from Abilene, Texas. Meghan is 20 years old and was born with Microtia and Atresia of her right ear. Meghan says that living with Microtia and Atresia has had its ups and downs, but with the support of her parents, family and friends, it has allowed her to accept living with Microtia […]

08/09/16

Meet Jessica Gonzalez from El Paso, Texas. Jessica is 28 years old and was born with Microtia and Atresia of her right ear. Jessica never asked why she couldn’t hear from her right ear while she was growing up or why she was born this way until recently when a couple of her college professors […]

06/24/16

Meet little Lyla Begaye who was born ten months ago with Microtia and Atresia of her left ear.  Lyla and her family live in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.  When Lyla was born, a newborn hearing test was conducted, but the hospital continued to test Lyla up to three times until she passed the newborn hearing screening. […]

06/24/16

Meet Emilia Drago from Geismar, Louisiana.  Emilia is a beautiful one and a half year old little girl who was born with Microtia and Atresia of her right ear and mild hemifacial microsomia.  When Emilia was born, doctors did not know what to tell her parents regarding her being born with Microtia and Atresia.  Doctors […]

06/24/16

June 23, 2016 – Oticon Medical today previewed the new Ponto SuperPower, the first abutment-level sound processor with a fitting range down to 65 dB HL (BC). Oticon Medical developed the innovative SuperPower processor with the goal of enabling adults and children with higher degrees of mixed hearing loss to benefit from a discreet sound […]

06/24/16

June 22, 2016 Media Contact Renee Oehlerking Cochlear Americas 303-264-2104 roehlerking@Cochlear.com The new Baha 5 Power and Baha 5 SuperPower Sound Processors complete the Baha 5 portfolio Centennial, Colo., (June 23, 2016) — Cochlear Limited (ASX: COH), the global leader in implantable hearing solutions, announces today the commercial availability of the Baha® 5 Power and […]

05/25/16

Update on the Ear Community Organization’s website: The Ear Community Organization’s website is now www.EarCommunity.org  However, the www.EarCommunity.com will continue to be owned by the Ear Community Organization and will be redirected to the .org domain address.  All website visitors who visit our  .com domain address will automatically be redirected to the .org address. Thanks! Melissa […]

05/19/16

On Wednesday, May 18th, 2016, Fox31 News DENVER aired a clip on the Ear Community Organization that helped promote public awareness about Microtia and Atresia and hearing loss for “Better Hearing and Speech Month” for the month of May. The Ear Community Organization has helped thousands of families since 2010 all over the world who […]

05/13/16

On Wednesday, May 11th, 2016, Melissa and Sophia Shemanski, members of the Microtia and Atresia Support Group (an online support group run by the Ear Community Organization…a charitable organization that helps individuals born with Microtia and Atresia all over the world), helped promote public awareness and education about Microtia and Atresia and hearing loss.  Sophia […]

04/14/16

Ear Community would like to thank our amazing sponsors for helping make our Ear Community Microtia and Atresia family picnics possible once again this summer!  At our Ear Community picnics, you will not only be given an amazing opportunity to meet other families in the same situation who have Microtia and Atresia, but you will […]

03/25/16

  The Ear Community Organization is a charitable nonprofit that hosts picnics every year around the world helping bring Microtia and Atresia families together.  Ear Community events are always FREE with lunch being provided and lots of fun entertainment for the kids.  Ear Community’s amazing sponsors will be joining us at our wonderful picnics helping us learn […]

03/11/16

March 9, 2016 Media Contact Renee Oehlerking Cochlear Americas 303-264-2104 roehlerking@Cochlear.com The Cochlear™ Baha® 5 SuperPower Sound Processor provides those who struggle more than most the ability to hear better and connect wirelessly to a variety of electronic devices Centennial, Colo., (March 9, 2016) — Cochlear Limited (ASX: COH), the global leader in implantable hearing solutions, announced […]

03/11/16

Whether you are just beginning your hearing loss journey or are an experienced traveler on the road to better hearing, Ida Telecare, a new suite of online tools, makes it easier for you to successfully manage everyday communication and important decisions related to your hearing. Developed by the non-profit Ida Institute, Ida Telecare is a […]

02/08/16

No surgery, seamless fit with existing abutments for unprecedented  freedom of choice in bone anchored hearing solutions SOMERSET, NJ February 8 — Oticon Medical announced today that it has obtained 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market the Ponto Abutment Extension. The new abutment extension seamlessly connects to existing abutments so users […]

01/12/16

Meet Joel Orozco, a freshman attending California State University, Fullerton.  Joel was born with Microtia and Atresia of his left ear.  Joel always had a positive outlook on life and always fit in with his classmates when he was younger and enjoyed playing on the playground with his peers.  However, during middle school he struggled […]

01/08/16

Meet YuXi Sun Todd.  YuXi is a beautiful seven year old girl who was born in Beijing, China, but is now a citizen living in the United States.  YuXi was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia and has lived in an orphanage in China since three months of age. On May 22nd, 2015, YuXi was […]

01/08/16

On December, 18th, 2015, Melissa Tumblin, Founder of the Ear Community Organization, was presented with a $10,000 grant by Julia Patrick, a representative of the Resort2Kindness Organization, a nonprofit organization that spreads kindness and generosity in Colorado.  Originally, Melissa thought she was attending a lunch interview for being one of the three finalists for this […]

12/01/15

Today is Giving Tuesday! While the Ear Community Organization may be headquartered in Colorado, we help children and adults with Microtia and Atresia all over the United States and in many countries across the world! Ear Community brought together over 1,000 people this year at our events held in Australia, Denmark, Pennsylvania, Colorado, Washington, and […]

11/30/15

A Truly New Perspective on Tissue Preservation Copenhagen, DK November 30 — Oticon Medical has long recognized the benefits of tissue preservation surgery in bone anchored hearing surgery for reducing post- op complication and improving cosmetic outcomes. This week, Oticon Medical introduced a further refinement of the proven tissue preservation surgery for use with the company’s Ponto System. The […]

11/30/15

Copenhagen, DK November 30 — Oticon Medical introduces the Ponto BHX Implant, the first implant with a laser-ablated titanium surface that promotes a faster and stronger bonding to bone and increases the strength of the bone-to- implant interface by more than 150%.1 The FDA-cleared Ponto BHX Implant is a perfect match between Oticon Medical’s proven OptiGrip™ geometry and […]

11/10/15

Meet Krissia Lopez Romero. Krissia is a beautiful little eight year old girl who was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia. While Krissia was born in El Salvador, she now lives with her family in Falls Church, Virginia (USA). Unfortunately, since Krissia was born in El Salvador, she does not qualify for Medicaid and her […]

10/12/15

Camilla Gilbert of Cincinnati, Ohio is among the outstanding individuals with hearing loss honored by the 2015 Oticon Focus on People Awards, a national competition that celebrates individuals who are helping to eliminate negative stereotypes of what it means to have a hearing loss.  As the First Place Winner in the Advocacy Category, Camilla was […]

10/09/15

Meet Lebo Pretty Ndladla from Shongwe Mission in South Africa.  Little Lebo is 6 years old and was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia including Treacher Collins Syndrome.  While Lebo is surrounded by much love from her family in the small village they live in, Lebo still  struggles to hear her family and friends communicating […]

09/23/15

A Guide for Making Informed Decisions for Bone Anchored Hearing Systems Selecting the hearing solution that’s right for you or your child requires research and understanding of the technology that makes each solution unique. While audiologists, ENTs and doctors can help guide you, it’s important to understand your options and advocate for what you want […]

09/15/15

Course #26259 On Tuesday, October 13th, 2015, at 12 noon EDT, a live accredited online webinar will be offered to Audiologists and hearing device dispensers.  This course is FREE to the public and to any individuals or families who are interested in learning more about the Oticon Medical Ponto Plus BAHS (Bone Anchored Hearing System) […]

08/24/15

Meet Michael and Damian Mosley of Mableton, Georgia. Michael is nine years old and was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia and his brother, Damian, is almost 2 years old, born with Microtia and Atresia of his left ear. Michael and Damian’s father, Nathanael, also has Microtia and Atresia. Michael and Damian’s parents, Sarah and […]

08/21/15

Meet Adam Kozuszek, a freshman entering his first year of college at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.  Adam comes from a long history of farmers and he enjoys being a big brother to his two younger sisters, Sarah and Clara.  Adam was born with Microtia and Atresia of his right ear, but his hearing […]

08/06/15

Every now and then you meet someone in your life who just understands what it is that you are trying to do and they embrace you. A special someone who wants to help you because they see a certain passion in you. A certain someone who chooses to take you under their wing providing guidance […]

08/06/15

Oticon Medical Mourns Passing of Curt Gorman, Senior Vice President, BAHS Division SOMERSET, NJ   August 6 — Oticon Medical sadly announces the passing of Curt Gorman, Senior Vice President, BAHS Division, following a courageous battle with cancer.  A valued member of the management team since Oticon Medical’s inception in 2009, Gorman was passionate about building […]

08/03/15

Oticon Medical is pleased to announce the launch of the FIRST SOFT HEALING CAP on the market. The healing cap is intended to be attached to the abutment during the soft tissue healing period after a bone anchored implant surgery to hold the dressing in place and act as protective mechanical barrier. Consequently, the new soft healing […]

07/21/15

Meet Reyna Guzman-Marroquin, a 2.5 year old toddler born with unilateral Microtia and Atresia of her right ear.  Reyna lives in Fort Morgan, Colorado and is your typical little girl who is fun spirited and excited to begin talking and singing.  Shortly after Reyna was born, her mom, Magdalena Marroquin-Ramirez, began noticing that Reyna wasn’t […]

06/18/15

Meet Nicole Pintac of Minot, North Dakota.  Nicole is a twenty year old beautiful young lady who was born with Microtia and Atresia of her right ear.   When Nicole was younger, she did have reconstructive ear surgery on her right ear (rib graft), but she still struggled with her hearing. Nicole works at a […]

06/18/15

Meet Luca Brooks, a one and a half year old sweet baby boy from Burke, Virginia.  Luca has bilateral Microtia and Atresia and has been diagnosed with Branchio-Oto-Renal Syndrome.  Luca was born premature (at 34 weeks) and spent his first days in the NICU.  Today, Luca is full of energy and one of the happiest […]

04/21/15

Meet Annika Silang-Ferrer from the Philippines. Little Annika is 4.5 years old and was born with grade III Microtia and Atresia of her right ear. Annika is a beautiful girl who is very happy and has one of the brightest smiles you will ever see. Annika looks forward to everyday and carries on playing with […]

04/15/15

New Oticon Medical Streamer and ConnectLine App Allow Users of Ponto Plus Bone Anchored Sound Processor to Connect to iPhone, iPad and iPod touch Oticon Medical announces the launch of the Oticon Medical Streamer and ConnectLine App that will enable Ponto Plus sound processor users to control their bone anchored hearing solutions with just a […]

04/09/15

Meet little Hudson Yost, born with Microtia and Atresia of his left ear and Hemifacial Microsomia. Hudson is 4.5 years old and lives in China with his adoptive parents, Dave and Tammi Yost. Hudson is full of energy and is quick to be friends with everyone. He is always armed with a hug and a […]

04/07/15

The Cochlear™ Baha® 5 Sound Processor allows users to stream sound directly from iPhone®, iPad® or iPod touch® Here is the direct link to the Cochlear Americas press release with VIDEOs of the product: http://www.multivu.com/players/English/7052252-cochlear-baha-5-sound-processor/ PR Newswire– Centennial, Colo., (April 7, 2015) Cochlear Limited (ASX: COH), the global leader in implantable hearing solutions, announced today the commercial availability of […]

02/17/15

Meet Andrew Perry, an almost 14 year old who was born with Treacher Collins and bilateral Microtia and Atresia.  Andrew lives in Atlanta, Georgia with his father, Clyde, and his younger sister, Sara.  Andrew enjoys spending time with his friends and family. However, Andrew struggles with hearing conversations and lessons in the school classroom due […]

02/12/15

2015 Ear Community Microtia and Atresia Summer Family Picnics Ear Community hosts picnics every year around the world helping bring Microtia and Atresia families together.  This year’s picnics will take place in Australia, Denmark, Pennsylvania (USA), Colorado (USA), Washington (USA), and South Africa.  It is very exciting for many families! Everyone enjoys attending our picnics […]

02/04/15

Hi Everyone! One of our support group members and a very dear friend of mine would like to share her story with all of us. Here it is: Hi, My name is Camilla Gilbert. I was born with a congenital deformity call Bilateral Microtia type III, whichaffected the outer ear not to fully develop. Furthermore […]

12/24/14

On Saturday, December 20th, 2014, a toy drive for Microtia and Atresia kids of Colorado was made possible by Jeramiah Penaflor, Zach Gulley, Robert Brehm, Brian Caldwell, Dina Voiselle, and Gary and Dawn Penaflor for the Ear Community Organization. Santa, played by Zach Gulley – Managing Parnter for the Bert and the Beard radio station, […]

11/26/14

In April of 2014, Max and Melissa Witt gave birth to a beautiful sweet baby boy named Clark. When Clark was born, he was originally diagnosed with having Goldenhar Syndrome and Hemifacial Microsomia. Clark was also born without his left ear due to having Microtia and a missing ear canal due to having Atresia, resulting […]

11/12/14

Would you like your child to receive a letter from Santa Clause and a stuffed elf/reindeer this holiday season? If so, Ear Community has teamed up with the North Pole this holiday season to do this very thing! Please visit http://www.santasentmeamessage.com/personalizedletterearcommunity.html and put a smile on your children’s faces this Christmas season with a special letter directly […]

11/05/14

November 3, 2014 Media Contact Kelly Krueger Principle, Krueger PR (415) 235-5031 Kelly@KruegerPR.com Centennial, Colo., (November 3, 2014) – Cochlear Limited (ASX: COH), the global leader in implantable hearing solutions, is pleased that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has decided to keep the original classification of osseointegrated implants, such as the Baha System. This means that […]

11/05/14

Encourages Continuation of Awareness-Building among Key Groups and General Public SOMERSET, NJ  November 5 –On October 31, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced via final rule that auditory osseointegrated implants (AOIs) are not hearing aids and therefore will remain a covered benefit for those Medicare enrollees with qualifying indications. For Oticon Medical, […]

10/28/14

Meet Randy Murray, a 65 year old from Michigan City, Indiana who was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia.  Randy has struggled most of his life with his hearing loss due to atresia (absence of ear canals).  Over the years, as he has gotten older, Randy’s hearing has begun degrading, causing him to struggle even […]

10/06/14

Meet Derek Dwyer, a 22 year old from Snellville, Georgia, currently attending Gwinnett Technical College. Derek was born with Nager Syndrome and bilateral Microtia and Atresia and is the youngest of three siblings. Derek loves music and all things computer related since he is working toward a college degree in computer engineering and graphic design. […]

09/25/14

Meet Ava Katuszonek, an adorable little three year old girl who was born with Microtia and Atresia of her right ear. Ava is a very happy little girl who enjoys playing with friends and is excited to learn the alphabet and begin reading. However, when Ava was about one year old, her mom, Shannon, began […]

09/16/14

Meet Dustin Neerhof, a sweet little nine month old baby boy who was born with Microtia and Atresia of his left ear and hemifacial microsomia (diagnosed as having Goldenhar Syndrome). Dustin is a happy little boy who enjoys cooing and babbling with his identical twin brother and the two are quite the cute duo! Dustin […]

09/10/14

Meet Eliana Villanueva, a beautiful three year old little girl who was born with Microtia and Atresia of her right ear who lives in Riverbank, California. Eliana enjoys playing with her older brother and sister (Joey and Samantha) and is proud to be a mama’s girl, says her mother, Veronica. Eliana is also a very […]

07/22/14

July 22, 2014 Media Contact Kerri Lewandowski Public Relations Manager Cochlear Americas KLewandowski@Cochlear.com Life changing hearing solution may become unavailable for those in need; the public is encouraged to take action to support continued coverage of the Baha Implant System Centennial, Colo., (July 22, 2014) – Cochlear Limited (ASX: COH), the global leader in implantable hearing solutions, announced […]

06/18/14

Ear Community is proud to have been able to help Ivy Welsh get to Los Angeles, CA so she could have surgery for a newly reconstructed Medpor ear on May 17th, 2014.  This was Ivy Welsh’s second surgery after living with a previously botched reconstructed ear from over seven years ago.  This was her second […]

05/28/14

Meet little Milagro Alfaro who was born with Microtia and Atresia of her right ear. Milagro is four years old and also has Goldenhar Syndrome along with additional medical issues. Even though Milagro has better hearing in her left ear, she has struggled with chronic middle ear fluid that has impacted that ear’s access to […]

05/27/14

Oticon Medical has entered into a partnership with Bo Håkansson, PhD, Professor at Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden, for the future commercialization of the active transcutaneous Bone Conduction Implant (BCI). Prof. Håkansson is the inventor of the first bone anchored hearing aid and is one of the pioneers in direct bone conduction hearing systems […]

05/21/14

In 2009, a beautiful baby girl was born to Brent and Melissa Tumblin named Alyssa.  This beautiful little girl was born missing her right ear (Microtia) and missing her ear canal (Atresia), resulting in hearing loss.   Brent and Melissa tried to find answers through many doctors and ENTs and tried to learn why Ally […]

05/14/14

Hi Everyone! Ear Community is proud to host seven more Microtia and Atresia family picnics this summer.  Last year, Ear Community hosted seven picnics that took place in Spain, the United Kingdom, and in the United States, helping bring almost 1,300 people together along with medical professionals and hearing device companies.  Ear Community’s picnics welcome […]

03/20/14

Thank you to Dr. Matthew Carfrae of the University of Virginia for letting us know about Dr. Jahrsdoerfer’s passing. On Monday, Dr. Robert Jahrsdoerfer passed away. Dr. Jarsdoerfer was the one ENT/Otologist who developed the canalplasty technique. Many ENTs trained with Dr. Jahrsdoerfer, learning his skills to help restore hearing loss. Some ENT Otologists who […]

03/18/14

Meet Liza Orlovskaya, a beautiful and talented young lady who is 12 years old living in Moscow, Russia. Liza was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia. Liza not only is a high achiever and enjoys going to school, but she competes in literary competitions and wins them. She also reads a lot and looks forward […]

02/07/14

Centennial, Colo., (December 3, 2013) – Cochlear Limited (ASX: COH), the global leader in implantable hearing solutions, announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared the Cochlear™ Baha® 4 Attract System for use in the United States. Cochlear is the only company to now offer patients a choice of either a magnetic or […]

02/06/14

Oticon Medical has obtained 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market Ponto Plus, our newest family of bone anchored sound processors. New Ponto Plus is available in regular and power versions that feature a new transducer, Inium feedback shield and new wireless capabilities. The new sound processors are designed for […]

01/31/14

On Tuesday, January 28th, Aaron Simko was fitted with a Cochlear Baha 4 bone conduction hearing device.  Aaron is 29 years old and was born with Treacher Collins Syndrome and bilateral Microtia and Atresia.  Aaron lives in Littleton, Colorado and works for Kingsoopers grocer as a lead cheese fromagier.  Aaron noticed he was struggling with […]

12/26/13

Max Virtual donates unique hats with hearing devices to Ear Community By Megan QuinnEnterprise Staff Writer Posted:   12/24/2013 01:21:07 PM MST STYLISH AND FUNCTIONAL: Mike Freeman, right, of Max Virtual, fits Siena Newcomb, 5, with a colorful hat that also will help enhance her hearing. (David R. Jennings / Broomfield Enterprise) Learn more For […]

12/26/13

Oticon Medical has obtained 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market Ponto Plus, our newest family of bone anchored sound processors. New Ponto Plus is available in regular and power versions that feature a new transducer, Inium feedback shield and new wireless capabilities. The new sound processors are designed for […]

12/18/13

Meet Alessandro Martinez who is 1.5 years old and was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia. Alessandro and his family live in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Alessandro’s mother, Ana Mazariego, says that “Alessandro’s hearing loss is educationally handicapping. He is unable to hear normal conversational speech without some kind of amplification device.” She fears that he will […]

11/25/13

  Meet little Guoyiyang from China, a handsome little three year old twin boy who was born with Bilateral Microtia and Atresia. Yiyang hasn’t been able to hear well since birth due to having Atresia in both ears. Yiyang’s family does not have health coverage and was unable to afford a hearing device for him. […]

11/05/13

Oticon Medical launches new Ponto Plus family of bone anchored sound processors Better hearing when patients need it most – new powerful transducer, Inium feedback shield, and new wireless possibilities In 2009, Oticon Medical advanced bone anchored hearing systems into the world of digital hearing technology. Now, the company brings significant new improvements to patients […]

11/05/13

November 5, 2013… “Cochlear is pleased to introduce the latest in bone conduction hearing — the Baha® 4 Sound Processor. It is the smartest, most advanced bone conduction sound processor ever created. In fact, at the heart of the new sound processor lies the powerful Ardium™ platform — three times faster, and with eight times […]

10/24/13

On Saturday, October 19th 2013, in San Diego, California, during the 3rd Annual Oticon Medical Patient Advocacy Conference, Alan Raffauf (VP of US Marketing for Oticon Medical) proudly presented Melissa Tumblin, Founder of Ear Community, with an award in recognition for her advocacy within the Microtia and Atresia community and for the opportunities and events […]

10/03/13

For audiologists and various medical professionals who are looking to obtain CEU credit, on Tuesday, October 15th, 2013, I will be presenting a webinar on Microtia and Atresia that is sponsored by the Educational Audiology Association.  This presentation is 1.5 hours in length and will take place during 12pm NOON to 1:30PM (MDT/Colorado Time).  This […]

09/26/13

Meet Lilly Byrd. This young spunky little girl was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia and has one of the prettiest smiles on earth. When Lilly was eight months old, she had her first cleft palate repair. Things were better for a while, but the hole in the roof of her mouth opened again. She […]

09/15/13

  Meet sweet Laura Lopez. Laura is from Salem, Oregon (United States) and is a Spanish speaking 13 year old who was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia. Laura enjoys spending time with her family and is excited about becoming a teenager. Laura is a happy girl with a beautiful smile who lives for everyday […]

09/15/13

  Meet Fabrizio and Fabiano Vega Silvestre from Lima, Peru. These two, adorable little one year old twins, are busy and on the go and are excited for their vocabulary to come in so they can start communicating. However, both Fabrizio and Fabiano were born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia. Fabiano was also born with […]

09/15/13

  Meet Monique Hernandez. Monique is an undergraduate student in her last semester studying Psychology at Arizona State University. Monique was born with Microtia and Atresia of her left ear. Monique has not had reconstructive surgery and is unaided.  Last year, Monique wasn’t sure if she would be able to complete her undergraduate degree because […]

07/09/13

  Meet Joseph, an active seven year old boy in St. Charles, Missouri. Joseph was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia in addition to being born with ASD. Right after Joseph’s first birthday, he had open heart surgery because of his ASD. Joseph’s lungs were also not fully developed as he was born four weeks […]

07/09/13

  Meet Regan, a very sweet little boy who lives in North Dakota (USA) who is two years old and was born with Microtia and Atresia of his left ear. Regan was also born with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome, a syndrome that affects about 1 in 20,000 to 40,0000 births. Regan has been through a […]

07/08/13

On June 28th, 2013, Melissa Tumblin, Founder and Exeuctive Director of Ear Community, presented at the Educational Audiology Association in Scottsdale, Arizona at the Montelucia Resort. The EAA invited Melissa to present about Microtia and Atresia and unilateral hearing loss at the conference. The course was presented over a 1.5 hour duration and was offered […]

06/06/13

When Ivy Welsh was six years old, she wanted so badly to have a big girl ear because Ivy was born with Microtia and Atresia of her right ear.  When Ivy’s mom, Nicole, had found a doctor who said he could make her a beautiful ear, she was very excited and couldn’t wait for her […]

06/05/13

On May 18, 2013, Ear Community proudly announced who the members are for its Advisory Board.  “It has been a privilege and an honor to get to know each one of our Advisory Board members over the past three years and I am proud to have established such an amazing professional relationship with each and […]

05/02/13

  Hello Everyone! On, Tuesday, April 23, 2013, I presented an educational session through AudiologyOnline (sponsored by Oticon Medical) about Microtia and Atresia discussing all options that are currently available along with sharing my own experience with Microtia and Atresia after my youngest daughter was born with Microtia and Atresia of her right ear.  This […]

05/02/13

Hi Everyone! Ear Community is proud to host seven more Microtia and Atresia summer family picnics this summer around the world.  Last year’s picnics that Ear Community hosted took place in Canada and in the United States and helped bring almost 1,000 people together.  Ear Community’s picnics welcome Microtia and Atresia families and individuals (including […]

05/02/13

Meet Bear.  Bear is two years old and lives in Atlanta, Georgia.  Bear was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia (born with Grade I Microtia of both ears and has no ear canals resulting in hearing loss).  Bear is a very bubbly little boy who enjoys exploring life everyday.  Even though Bear would carry on […]

04/17/13

  AudiologyOnline – Webinar on Microtia and Aural Atresia April 23, 2013 at 11AM Eastern Daylight Time Session name:  “Microtia/Aural Atresia:  A Parent’s Perspective” Course #22141 Melissa Tumblin, Founder and Executive Director of Ear Community has been invited to host a webinar session through AudiologyOnline discussing Microtia and Aural Atresia that will take place on […]

04/16/13

    Hi Everyone! As of April 12, 2013, Sophono, Inc.– manufacturer of abutment-free, implantable, bone conduction hearing devices – has received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). With the clearance, individuals in the United States who have the Sophono Alpha 2™ System can undergo MRI – in […]

03/28/13

Ear Community is proud to announce that Camilla Gilbert of Cincinnati, Ohio is the first recipient of an Ear Community college scholarship.  Camilla was born with Grade III Bilateral Microtia and Atresia and has never had reconstructive surgery.  Even though Camilla was born deaf, she says “fortunately my family was able to afford a bone […]

03/27/13

Meet Hazeeq.  Hazeeq is two years old and lives in Malaysia.  Hazeeq was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia (born missing both ears and has no ear canals resulting in hearing loss).   Hazeeq doesn’t let his Microtia and Atresia bring him down though.  He loves playing with his two brothers and carries on just […]

03/10/13

Hi Everyone! Ear Community is proud to host seven more Microtia and Atresia summer family picnics this summer around the world.  Last year’s picnics that Ear Community hosted took place in Canada and in the United States and helped bring almost 1,000 people together.  Ear Community’s picnics welcome Microtia and Atresia families and individuals (including […]

03/09/13

Hi Everyone! In February of 2013, Dr. John Reinisch proudly launched his new website, https://www.drjohnreinisch.com/microtia-treatment/what-is-microtia.  Dr. Reinisch has nearly 35 years of experience in treating children with craniofacial deformities, cleft lips and palates, vascular tumors, pigmented birthmarks, and microtia (congenital deformity of the ear). He is known worldwide for his groundbreaking design and successful use […]

01/25/13

This is adorable little Evan Holley who is five years old and was born with bilateral Microtia and Atresia.  Evan’s family could only provide him with one Baha (bone conduction hearing device) even though he needed two to hear best. Insurance coverage had denied their claim for a second Baha for Evan.  On December 3rd, […]

11/26/12

On Monday, November 26, 2012, the Daily Camera newspaper featured an article on the front page of the ‘Local’ section about Ear Community and how Melissa’s work is helping give back to the community as a global nonprofit organization.  ________________________________________________________ Growing Strong:  Ear Community Charity Achieves Nonprofit Status By Megan Quinn Daily Camera Staff Writer […]

11/25/12

Hi Everyone! This is the latest article about Ear Community that was published in the Broomfield Enterprise this Sunday Morning, November 25, 2012, during Thanksgiving weekend.  I know success does not happen over night, but little by little I hope to find the funding to help Ear Community grow the way that I would like […]

11/13/12

Hello Everyone, Many of us choose to donate to charities each and every year because they have either helped us or because we believe in their cause. Well, now we have Ear Community, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that directly helps the Microtia and Atresia community. I am one mom who is really trying to help […]

10/16/12

Hi Everyone! Below are the details for our 3rd Annual Secret Santa Gift Exchange… This is an international gift exchange, so you may be assigned an international friend. 🙂 The minimum to spend on a gift is $20 (USD). Please take into consideration that the cost of shipping a package to another country may cost […]

09/12/12

I am pleased to announce that as of August 16, 2012, Ear Community became a non profit organization.  Ear Community will continue to help individuals, families, and medical professionals around the world learn more about Microtia and Atresia including their options along with advocacy.  Ear Community is also a global organization and plans on helping […]

09/12/12

On Saturday, August 25, 2012, I, (Melissa Tumblin) – Founder of Ear Community and the Microtia and Atresia Support Group on Facebook, presented at the 2nd Annual Oticon Medical Patient Advocacy Conference in Somerset, New Jersey.   I spoke about advocacy and how Ear Community (www.Ear Community.com) can help families and individuals with Microtia and Atresia […]

08/19/12

Hello Everyone, As of August 16, 2012, I am so very proud to announce that Ear Community became a 501 c3 non profit organization.  I will be announcing details in the upcoming weeks and making some changes to our website along with listing our Tax ID Number.  However, I would like to share with you […]

07/28/12

On Saturday, July 28, 2012, we hosted our Microtia and Atresia Summer Family Picnic in Pleasanton, California! We had nearly 200 people attend our picnic. A very special Thank You to Amy Gile and her family for hosting our picnic. Thank you Amy for also being my host family and allowing me to stay with […]

07/27/12

As of Friday, July 27, 2012, Dr. Sheryl Lewin launched her new website, www.MicrotiaEarSurgery.com.  Dr. Sheryl Lewin also has her own private practice located at: Aesthetic Ear Reconstruction 1301 Twentieth Street, Suite 430 Santa Monica, CA  90404 Office:  310-828-1414 Mobile:  310-291-2078 E-mail:  SherylLewinMD@gmail.com Dr. Sheryl Lewin no longer works for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Ear […]

07/21/12

On Saturday, July 21st in Calgary, Alberta Canada, we had our 1st Microtia and Atresia summer family picnic (including families of Goldenhar Syndrome, Treacher Collins, and Hemifacial Microsomia loved ones).  The day was beautiful and so was our park location.  Cochlear and Oticon Medical proudly sponsored our picnic along with Handy Latino & Associates Carpet […]

07/21/12

On Saturday, July 21, 2012, I hosted our 2nd Annual Summer Picnic for Microtia and Atresia families (including Goldenhar Syndrome, Treacher Collins, and Hemifacial Microsomia families).  Our Colorado Picnic was a huge success! Even though it was 100 degrees, we had close to 200 people attend (almost double the amount of people from last year’s […]

07/16/12

Hi Everyone, Today, my latest article was published by AudiologyOnline about Ear Community and Microtia and Atresia.  I am thankful for the opportunity to have been interviewed by AudiologyOnline and I am honored to have been featured in an article by such a wonderful global organization.   I founded Ear Community in 2012 and launched […]

06/30/12

Our Texas Microtia and Atresia Summer Family Picnic was a huge success. Even though it poured rain with thunder and lightening the entire time, close to 90 people had a wonderful time and still found a way to have fun and share experiences with one another. There were little girls hula hooping in the rain […]

06/18/12

With great pleasure I would like to thank Cochlear Americas, Oticon Medical and Sophono for sponsoring our summer picnic that was just held in Yonkers, New York for Microtia and Atresia families (including Hemifacial Microsomia, Treacher Collins and Goldenhar Syndrome families).  Our event would not have been possible if it were not for our sponsors.  […]

05/20/12

Hello Everyone, Today marks the 2 Year Anniversary for our global support group on Facebook, the Microtia and Atresia Support Group.  Our support group has helped thousands of families and individuals around the world learn how to become better advocates and learn about all of their options.  Our support group has become internationally recognized and […]

03/18/12

Hello Everyone, This morning, Sunday March 18th, 2012, a very nice story went out in the Sunday Morning Broomfield Enterprise news paper for our home community.  Joe Rubino (Broomfield Enterprise Reporter) did a wonderful job relaying my feelings and points regarding helping promote public awareness about Microtia and Atresia and how the Ear Community website […]

03/04/12

Hello Everyone! On Thursday, March 8th at 4:30pm Mountain Standard Time (6:30pm Eastern Standard Time) for American and Canadian time zones, I will be hosting a global conference call to discuss Microtia and Atresia through the AboutFace Organization in Canada.  Anyone around the world is welcome to join in on this call if you can […]

02/17/12

The following “thank you” was posted to our support group wall on Friday, February 17, 2012 by one of our support group members: “My daughter is 3 1/2years old and for the first time today I feel like we have direction and are getting somewhere with her microtia and atresia. This is all thanks to […]

01/27/12

On January 27, 2012, I received a call from an Early Intervention service provider called Chatter Pillar Kids in Denver asking to attend our summer picnic scheduled for July 21st and also inquiring about our group’s new website, Ear Community.  Chatter Pillar Kids is an ideal organization as they provide speech, occupational, and physical therapy […]

01/20/12

On January 20, 2012, I was asked by a researcher and her committee of parent advocates if our new website and support group could be included in a new helpful resource guide that will soon be available.  I am not only honored to have been asked for Ear Community to be included in this new […]

01/16/12

Also on January 16, 2012, I received an e-mail from AudiologyOnline, http://www.audiologyonline.com/, asking to link to our new website when it launches.  What an honor to know that a global audiology organization is excited for our new website and appreciates the passion about hearing loss in our support group.  Thank you Audiology Online for your […]

01/16/12

On January 16, 2012 I receive a message from an audiologist letting me know that our support group was “spotlighted” by the Educational Audiology Association, the EAA.  This was very exciting news not just for our support group, but we also had over 20 audiologists join our group over the next couple of days.  Thank […]

12/21/11

On December 21, 2011, I received an e-mail from Dr. Greg O’Toole of the UK (world renown Rib Graft surgeon) sharing some information with me including a video of one of his patients, named Ethan, who was born with Microtia.  Thank you Dr. O’Toole for your kind message and for embracing our global support group.  […]

11/20/11

On November 20, 2011, our support group turned 1.5 years old!  When founded on May 20, 2010 I was our group’s first member.  Since then, we have grown to have over 2,500 global members (including anonymous members) total.  According to our support group’s Facebook statistics, we have had nearly 1 million post views in the […]

11/15/11

In November of 2011, I was invited to a meeting with marketing at Cochlear to discuss how Cochlear could help our support group.  We discussed the global picnics and we also discussed the launch of the new website.  Cochlear is excited to help our support group bring families together at our picnics too.  It was […]

10/27/11

During the month of October, 2011, our support group hosts its 2nd Annual Secret Santa Gift Exchange.  In 2011, our Secret Santa Gift Exchange became a global gift exchange.   Our group also continues to become more and more global everyday helping families and medical professionals around the world.

10/26/11

On October, 26 2011, a group and I met with Donna Sorkin, Vice President of Consumer Affairs for Cochlear, George Cire (renown audiologist and BAHA expert), and Tara Oneill (insurance specialist for the rocky mountain region).  Other members of the group at the meeting that night included Dr. Cheryl Johnson (one of Colorado’s top audiologists), […]

10/15/11

In October of 2011, I release my latest document called “10 Helpful Tips for BAHA Wearers” with members of our support group, medical professionals and additional support groups and helpful resources.  This document received an overwhelming response by the community.  I received numerous e-mails from audiologists, surgeons, medical professionals such as therapists and staff from […]

10/15/11

Also, in October of 2011, I have a meeting with Oticon Medical’s US Subsidiary Manager/President for the US.  After a full day of discussing Microtia and Atresia and how to help promote awareness, Oticon’s president asked me what can Oticon do to help me with our support group.  Along with a few other ideas, I […]

10/15/11

During the month of October in 2011, I receive news from Facebook that our group’s discussion area will be removed as they will be removing the “discussions” application on all groups and pages.  Unfortunately, this is the area of our support group that holds the heart of our group’s information and resources.  At this point, […]

09/25/11

On September 22, 2011 I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Brad Kesser and Dr. Burt Brent in person in between their scheduled presentations.  I have to say that was such an honor for me to have met them.  Both Dr. Brent and Dr. Kesser took the time to spend an hour with me and […]

09/15/11

In September, I receive a phone call from Agata Gelaberto of Regenear.  We have a very nice 45 minute conversation about Regenear, a company that Agata and her husband have started in Spain that focuses on the biomedical engineering of ear cartilage for individuals with Microtia.  Agata’s daughter has Microtia and has been diligently working […]

09/15/11

In September of 2011, I receive an e-mail from Dr. Cheryl Johnson (one of Colorado’s leading audiologists) letting me know that at an audiology conference she attended in California, Dr. Sheryl Lewin mentioned our support group as a helpful resource and touched on how open, warm and unbiased our group is.

08/28/11

On August 28, 2011 I share a comparative review on the three BAHA styles that Ally was able to trial.  This comparative review not only discussed the Cochlear BP100/BAHA3, Oticon Medical Ponto Pro, and Sophono Alpha 1 (S) all on a soft band, but I touch on hearing loss and discuss audiograms/hearing evaluations and the […]

08/27/11

During the weekend of August 27th, 2011, Oticon invited my family to attend their 1st Patient Advocacy Conference in Chicago, Illinois.  During this conference, my family and I learned more about the Ponto series sound processors and bone conduction technology.  We were also given the opportunity to meet with 10 other families who all wear […]

08/15/11

In August of 2011, I receive a handful of e-mails from Denver Public Health and TriCounty Health Departments asking me if they can pass along my group’s information to families with Microtia and Atresia and to have their staff/personnel note our support group as a helpful resource for the deaf and hard of hearing.  I […]

06/15/11

In June of 2011, I contacted the House Research Institute and had a very nice phone conversation with their education director.  As of June, 2011, the House Research Institute agreed to add a link for our support group as a helpful resource on their website.

06/15/11

In June, Dr. Brad Kesser asks if our support group would run a survey through to group members about unilateral Atresia in children growing up and their experience in the school classroom. 

06/11/11

For three months I planned for our summer picnic.  I drove around to at least thirteen grocery stores with Ally (when I found the time to do so) and information on letterhead about our support group asking for donations for our picnic.  I was determined to bring Microtia and Atresia families together no matter what…even […]

04/18/11

In April, I was contacted by Chicago Hands & Voices along with one of our support group members and asked to be on a conference call with families who have children with Microtia and Atresia.  Our conference call took place on April 18, 2011 and lasted for an hour and a half.  I am always […]

02/02/11

On February 2, 2011, I contact Oticon Medical to share with them how our support group is a helpful resource for individuals with Microtia and Atresia and who have hearing loss.  On this day I had an hour and a half conversation with Oticon’s Vice President of Marketing explaining the little bit of awareness Microtia […]

01/15/11

In January of 2011, I have a meeting with the Marketing Manager, the District Sales Manager, and the Vice President of Business Development for Sophono to discuss the newly released Alpha 1 system.  We also discuss the lack of awareness about Microtia and Atresia.

01/15/11

In January of 2011, Dr. Arturo Bonilla recognizes our support group as a helpful resource and begins telling his patients about our support group.

01/15/11

In January of 2011, I become a member of the Board of Directors for the Hands & Voices Organization.

01/15/11

In January of 2011, Dr. Burt Brent’s office recognizes our support group as a helpful resource and agrees to let patients know about our support group.

01/15/11

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 […]

12/15/10

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.

12/15/10

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.

12/15/10

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. […]

12/15/10

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 […]

12/15/10

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. 

10/26/10

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.

10/15/10

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

10/15/10

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.

10/15/10

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.

09/10/10

On September 10, 2010 I write Cochlear Americas to let them know of our positive experience with Ally responding to the BAHA.

09/08/10

On September 8, 2010, Dr. Brad Kesser’s office begins telling patients about our support group as a helpful resource to families with Microtia and Atresia.

09/02/10

On September 2, 2010, Dr. John Reinisch and Dr. Sheryl Lewin’s office recognizes our support group as a helpful resource for families and begins telling families/patients about our group.

08/31/10

During the end of August/beginning of September, 2010, Ally receives her very first loaner BAHA.  She began wearing the Cochlear Intenso on a pink soft band head band.  When Ally was between 6 and 7 months of age, she was babbling and cooing.  Suddenly, around 8 months of age…Ally just stopped.  She would not acknowledge […]

05/10/10

On May 20, 2010, the Microtia and Atresia Support Group was founded on Facebook.