EVMS patient is a beacon of hope in the hearing loss community

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 14:56:00 EDT

By Kimberly Carr

Jane Popkin's journey from losing her hearing to becoming an influential advocate in the cochlear implant community is a testament to her commitment of supporting others facing similar circumstances. Popkin’s work was recently acknowledged when Cochlear America named her the 2023 Hear-o of the Year volunteer.

Stephanie Moody Antonio, MD, FACS, Professor of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery and neurotology specialist at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University, and Popkin’s doctor at EVMS Ear, Nose & Throat Surgeons, guided Popkin through the process of receiving her first cochlear implant.

“People with hearing loss are often afraid to talk about their struggles and worries, even with their own families and doctors,” said Dr. Moody Antonio. “Jane has been a wonderful advocate for people with hearing loss, including many of my other patients.”

Popkin’s hearing loss began in 2005 following a bout with mononucleosis, which later led to a diagnosis of Meniere’s disease. Despite the initial challenges, she adapted with determination and began using hearing aids in 2014. However, her journey towards regaining her hearing took a transformative turn when she qualified for cochlear implants. The device in her left ear was implanted in 2017. Dr. Moody Antonio’s supportive approach gave Popkin the confidence to proceed with her right ear implant in 2018. She says her positive experience with cochlear implants was instrumental in her journey of giving back to the community.

“Dr. Moody Antonio was especially helpful, explaining everything through the process of cochlear implant surgery,” said Popkin. “She was always available to answer questions for me before and after each surgery.”

Since 2019, Popkin has been an active cochlear volunteer, participating in — and speaking at — open houses, mentoring new candidates and offering support. She and two other women who are cochlear implant patients at EVMS cofounded the Virginia Hearing Loss Support Network, a vital resource for individuals with hearing loss, especially those with cochlear implants. The network provides a safe space for socialization and learning about available resources, and it welcomes both family members and friends.

“Jane is approachable, honest and open in sharing her own experience,” said Dr. Moody Antonio. “Her energy and enthusiasm for helping others is inspiring and I am so grateful to her for what she has done to reduce the anxieties and stigmas related to hearing loss in our community.”

Popkin’s involvement extends beyond her support group. She has also played a crucial role in the Hearing Loss Association of America’s Virginia Beach Chapter and volunteers with Access Virginia. Her support for these organizations highlights her commitment to advocating for the hearing loss community on multiple fronts.

After the cochlear implant surgeries, Dr. Moody Antonio referred Popkin to a speech-language pathologist for structured aural rehabilitation. This rehabilitation helped her improve her speech understanding and music appreciation, enabling her to pursue lessons in classical guitar, which her specialist recommended. Popkin also credits her audiologist at EVMS, Anna Louthan, AuD, CCC-A, for her contributions to educational outreach, including creating videos about cochlear implants, which Popkin and her group have shared on their Facebook page.

Popkin’s story is a powerful reminder of the difference one individual can make in the lives of many.

“I would tell someone who is nervous not to hesitate to ask any questions before and after surgery,” said Popkin. “Be prepared for a period of adjustment after surgery. It takes time for the brain to adapt to processing sounds with a cochlear implant.”

For more information on cochlear implants and to make an appointment at EVMS Ear, Nose & Throat Surgeons, contact our office at (757) 689-8500.