We’re pleased to welcome two new HLAA-WA Board of Directors: Heidi Crabtree and Erlene VanDerMeer.

Heidi and Erlene will each serve a 3-year term ending in 2028.

Heidi Crabtree

Heidi lost her hearing when she was five years old due to mismanagement of chronic ear infections. Through a chance discussion between her mom and Carolyn Odio, Heidi got introduced to others with hearing loss and to HLAA-WA. Like many of us, hearing loss had isolated her, but that changed. Heidi discovered (at age ~50!) she was an extrovert and enjoyed being around people now that she finally had properly programmed hearing aids and assistive listening devices. Heidi is passionate in sharing hearing information, technology, and strategies with others as they have completely changed her life.

Erlene VanDerMeer

Erlene VanDerMeer has been a longtime hearing loss advocate and a member of HLAA for over 25 years. Her hearing loss began in her 40s, when she was employed as a clinical audiologist, so she went from being a provider to a recipient! She has attended over twenty HLAA conventions and has been president of two Washington State HLAA chapters. Having benefited from support and friendship in her hearing loss journey, she is enthusiastic about letting others know the value and benefits of being a HLAA member.

Their skills and talents are huge assets to us, especially as we continue our strategic planning process.

Welcome aboard!