In a groundbreaking move, Phonak, a renowned hearing care solutions company, has appointed Sara Mearns as their global brand ambassador. But here's the twist: Sara is the first-ever principal dancer with hearing loss at the prestigious New York City Ballet. This announcement is a powerful statement, challenging societal norms and inspiring those facing similar challenges.
Sara's journey began when she shared her 10-year struggle with hearing loss on Instagram. Her hearing difficulties started after a rehearsal in a metal gym with 100 drummers, which led to hearing loss in low registers. The pandemic exacerbated her condition, as masks made communication even harder. But Sara's determination to reclaim her confidence and value as a dancer and individual is remarkable. She aims to educate and empower others to protect their hearing, a vital sense that often goes unnoticed until it's compromised.
As a Phonak Ambassador, Sara will play a pivotal role in raising awareness about hearing health and normalizing conversations around hearing loss. She will share her personal experiences, struggles, and triumphs, inspiring others to take action. By openly discussing her journey, she hopes to encourage proactive hearing protection and the adoption of hearing solutions.
Sara's exceptional talent and versatility as a ballet dancer, with iconic roles in Swan Lake and The Nutcracker, make her an influential figure. And this is where it gets controversial—her appointment challenges the notion that hearing loss limits one's abilities. Sara's story proves that with the right support and mindset, hearing loss doesn't have to hold anyone back.
Phonak's Vice President of Marketing, Oliver Frank, praised Sara's tenacity and commitment, aligning it with the brand's own values of innovation and boundary-pushing. The company's diverse roster of ambassadors, including athletes and musicians, now welcomes Sara, adding a unique perspective to their advocacy.
This announcement is a call to action for a more inclusive and understanding society. It sparks a conversation about the importance of hearing health and the impact of hearing loss on various aspects of life. But what do you think? Is society doing enough to support those with hearing loss? Are we ready to embrace and celebrate diverse abilities? Share your thoughts and let's keep the conversation going!
