Do Not Give Up by Lindsey

Do Not Give Up by Lindsey - April 2016 Scholarship Essay

As the announcer called, “East Rockingham Eagles!,” we sprinted onto the cheer mat with the most energetic spirit. As the Eagles cheerleaders got into their positions, shockingly my cochlear implant shut off. I immediately had my eyes wide open and fear on my face. When I looked toward the crowd, I spotted my sign language interpreter easily. I gave her a warning sign and she knew what had just happened; she started to calm me down. Suddenly the captain of the team started to count, “5,6,7,8,” and we started cheering loudly. As soon we finished the routine, I had the best feeling that I’ve ever experienced because I completed the whole routine without hearing one beat of music. I will never forget what I went through and how I was successful this day of my life.

My name is Lindsey Hensley. I was born completely deaf in my right ear and have minimal hearing in my left ear. I am the only deaf person in my family. When I was 5 years old, I received a cochlear implant. This is a tiny technological machine implanted into my cochlea which fires electric bursts to help me hear. Being a deaf student and athlete has not been easy; it has brought along many challenges. Through the challenges though, I have learned a few things that I would pass on to other younger students.

One piece of advice I would share with younger students is to ask for help from teachers, counselors, and coaches. These professionals will help you with academics, sports and your future plans. When you encounter struggles, these are the people that will give you encouragement and the right advice to not give up. In my high school career, when I had to face a challenge in academics or sports, asking for help from teachers and coaches lessen my fear and stress. These people helped me to overcome the challenges that my deafness created. Do not give up and ask for help. This advice is helpful to everyone.