Dr. Kristen Weinbaum, owner of Precision Hearing, is once again bringing the joy of hearing to the community with the launch of the 8th Annual Gift of Hearing Contest. Running from November 13, 2024, to December 13, 2024, this annual initiative has become a cornerstone of holiday goodwill, offering one deserving individual the life-changing gift of hearing.

For eight consecutive years, this contest has touched lives, restoring not just hearing but also the connections that come with it. Dr. Weinbaum, who has personally experienced the challenges of hearing loss since childhood, describes her passion for this mission: “It brings me joy to know that I’ve made a difference in so many people’s lives. I feel truly blessed to run a successful business that has helped individuals regain their hearing.”

The contest winner will receive Oticon Intent hearing aids, state-of-the-art devices designed to revolutionize hearing. Equipped with 4D Sensor technology, these hearing aids interpret user intent to optimize sound clarity and enhance personalization. They support the brain’s natural sound processing, helping users stay alert and engaged with their surroundings. This groundbreaking technology aims to reconnect individuals to the world, especially during the holiday season—a time when the absence of hearing can be most profoundly felt.

Dr. Weinbaum hopes this gift will help the recipient experience the joy of family gatherings and festivities without the barrier of hearing loss. “Hearing loss creates a profound disconnect, especially during the holidays. My goal is to give someone the chance to fully participate in the moments that matter most,” she explains.

Hearing aids remain inaccessible to many due to financial constraints, despite their critical role in overall health and well-being. While 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from hearing aids, only a small fraction use them. Untreated hearing loss has been linked to mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and social isolation. It can also significantly increase the risk of cognitive decline.

“Those with untreated hearing loss often withdraw from social activities, leading to isolation and compounding their difficulties,” Dr. Weinbaum says. “This contest is an opportunity to help someone overcome those challenges and regain their quality of life.”

How to Enter

To participate, individuals are invited to share their personal stories or nominate someone they believe would benefit from hearing aids but cannot afford them. Submissions can be made via email to drweinbaum@precisionhearingfl.com, online at www.giftofhearing.net, or by mail to Precision Hearing, 4331 S. Highway 27, Clermont, FL, 34711. Stories should detail the nominee’s hearing challenges and how this gift could change their life.