When Parker was only one day old he was diagnosed with moderate to severe bilateral hearing loss. He was 4 ½months old when he received his first pair of hearing aids after his parent’s took him to an audiologist. Parker has never experienced life without hearing loss, but because of hearing aids, he has never not been able to hear.“Getting tested and fitted with hearing aids at such a young age has truly made all the difference in my development from infancy.

Without his hearing aids and other equipment that Parker uses daily, he could not perform his job duties as a Sheriff’s Deputy. Even though Parker has worn hearing aids for practically all of his life, he believes hearing aids have opened up a world that would have been quiet, secluded, and unnoticed without them.“There are lots of moments I have experienced that would be totally different if I did not have optimal hearing. Traveling alone, officiating my Uncle’s wedding, and hearing my wife repeat our wedding vows would just name a few.”Hearing aids have allowed Parker to live an extremely active lifestyle. He continues to do the things he loves such as camping, hiking, training, riding horses, shooting skeet, teaching self-defense and martial arts, playing guitar, hunting and fishing. Parker also volunteers his time with his local Cub Scout Pack,The Explorers, and mentors youth through TSOTS Ministry.“My biggest role models are my grandpa and dad. They always gave me their time; taught me the importance of family, how to lead, and to never give up on my dreams.

Parker is a HearStrong Champion because he lives by example and helps others to be the best that they can be. Parker’s life experiences with hearing loss and his gratitude towards everyone in his life who have offered him direction and support helps him relate to others. He is grateful for all of the people and organizations that have it made it possible for him to pursue his dreams and to live an active and social lifestyle.“Some hearing loss is repairable. Some can be aided. It is a good idea to know what kind of loss you have and if there is treatment available. Not being able to hear can make your world smaller. But, hearing better can make your world larger.”