MEET THE BOARD:
BRITTANY DICKSON
Vice President
Can you share your story about wearing hearing aids and how it has shaped your perspective on hearing health?
Brittany: Before my diagnosis of otosclerosis, I never gave much thought to hearing health. To me, it simply meant, “Don’t listen to music too loud.” But now, it’s something I think about every single day. With otosclerosis, my hearing will continue to decline, which serves as a constant reminder of just how valuable hearing is. I want everyone around me to take their hearing health seriously so they never have to face the struggles I experience daily.
What inspired you to join The Heart of Hearing and take on the role of Vice President?
Brittany: When Meaghan Thomas, President and Founder of The Heart of Hearing, and I met for the first time at a Starbucks in Green Hills, she asked me to help build the organization. My answer was an immediate "YES!"
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When I first learned that my hearing aids wouldn’t be covered by insurance, I knew something had to change. The fact that most insurance plans don’t cover hearing aids for people aged 18–65 is unjust. I want to be part of that change for the hard-of-hearing community. While we continue to fight for policy changes, I feel honored to serve on the board of The Heart of Hearing and ensure our recipients don’t have to bear the financial burden of hearing aids.
What has been the most rewarding moment for you since The Heart of Hearing’s founding?
Brittany: In 2024, our golf tournament recipient was someone who has impacted countless children’s lives—including mine. John, a U.S. veteran and the Camp Director of Deer Run, a Christian day and overnight camp in Leiper’s Fork, TN, had been open with me for years about his hearing loss. He knew he needed hearing aids but had been hesitant to wear them.
Seeing him finally take that step and become our recipient was an incredibly proud moment for me. I knew it would be life-changing for him and for the thousands of kids who attend Deer Run. With his hearing restored, John can now fully engage with the campers, hear their voices clearly, and answer their questions about their walk with Christ.
What do you think are the biggest misconceptions about hearing loss or hearing aids?
Brittany: That it only happens to people over 80! Hearing aids have long been seen as a symbol of aging, but hearing loss can affect anyone at any age for a variety of reasons.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone who might feel hesitant about addressing their hearing loss?
Brittany: See an audiologist as soon as possible—but make sure it’s someone highly recommended. I’ve been with my audiologist for over 10 years, and there’s no one I’d trust more to guide me through this journey.
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Wearing hearing aids is truly life-changing. You don’t realize how much you’re missing out on until your hearing is restored.
How can others get involved in supporting the organization’s mission?
Brittany: The easiest way is to help spread the word about our mission! If you or someone you know is between the ages of 18 and 45 and needs hearing aids but is burdened by the cost, please tell them about The Heart of Hearing or direct them to our online application.
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Another great way to support us is by following The Heart of Hearing on social media and attending our events. We host an incredible golf tournament every year, and we’d love to have you and your friends join us!