An Emmy Award-winning journalist for CBS Sacramento has courageously shared her lifelong, private battle with significant hearing loss, hoping to inspire others facing similar challenges.
A Lifelong, Hidden Struggle
Marlee Ginter, who joined the California station as an anchor in early 2020, disclosed to her audience that she has managed pronounced hearing loss for years. Her difficulties began in childhood, stemming from constant ear infections.
She described the profound social impact, recalling years of embarrassment. "After years getting embarrassed because I laughed at moments that weren't funny but played it off because I didn't hear what was said or was ashamed with people getting frustrated, raising their voices or even faking sign language at me," Glinter revealed.
The Professional Challenge and Seeking Help
The journalist explained that her hearing loss created substantial difficulties in her career, particularly within the chaotic newsroom environment. The cacophony of simultaneous conversations in close quarters often caused her to miss crucial communications from colleagues.
This professional hurdle eventually led Glinter to seek treatment with Dr. Tanner Mackey, an audiologist based in Elk Grove. Dr. Mackey noted that her social competence had masked the issue. "You came in and were socializing quite well, and you seemed quite competent in your ability to communicate with me. I wasn't picking up that there was a hearing loss," he said, adding that the subsequent assessment revealed "quite a substantial hearing loss there."
Breaking the Stigma with Modern Solutions
Glinter now uses discreet, modern hearing aids and is imploring others to overcome any stigma and seek treatment if needed. She highlighted their subtle design, noting they are "less than two inches long, even the same color as my hair, tucked behind my ear." She added that "the only part that shows is a thin, clear wire, and these are pretty much the standard now."
Their advanced functionality allows her to wear them even with the studio earpiece used during newscasts. "You can connect them right to your phone using an app to adjust the settings," she explained, detailing how they can be optimised for everything from a one-on-one conversation to a noisy restaurant.
Her story sheds light on a widespread issue. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, about 15 percent of US adults have some trouble hearing. The agency estimates that 28.8 million American adults could benefit from hearing aids, yet usage rates remain low, especially among younger adults.
By sharing her journey, Glinter aims to foster a sense of community and encourage action. "I'm hoping my story will make some people realize they're not alone and encourage them to get the help they need," she said.
