A Beacon of Hope in the Hearing Loss Community
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Jane Popkin's journey from losing her hearing to becoming an influential advocate in the cochlear implant community is a testament to her commitment to supporting others facing similar circumstances. In 2023, Popkin — a patient of Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences EVMS Medical Group at Old Dominion University — was celebrated for her contributions as Cochlear America's Hear-o of the Year volunteer.
Stephanie Moody Antonio, MD, professor of Otolaryngology — Head & Neck Surgery and neurotology specialist and Popkin’s doctor at EVMS Ear, Nose & Throat Surgeons, guided Popkin through the process of receiving her first cochlear implant in 2017.
“People with hearing loss are often afraid to talk about their struggles and worries, even with their own families and doctors,” said Dr. Moody Antonio, also the EVMS/Sentara Endowed Chair for Academic Leadership Advancement in Otolaryngology. “Jane has been a wonderful advocate for people with hearing loss, including many of my other patients.”
Popkin’s hearing loss began 20 years ago following a bout with mononucleosis, which later led to a diagnosis of Meniere’s disease. Despite the initial challenges, she adapted with determination and began using hearing aids in 2014. However, her journey toward regaining her hearing took a transformative turn when she qualified for cochlear implants. A cochlear implant is a device surgically placed in the ear for people who can't hear well enough with hearing aids. It has two parts: an internal component placed in the cochlea and an external piece worn on the head.
The supportive approach of Dr. Moody Antonio gave Popkin the confidence to proceed with her right ear implant in 2018. She said her positive experience with cochlear implants was instrumental in her journey of giving back to the community. “Dr. Moody Antonio was especially helpful, explaining everything through the process of cochlear implant surgery,” said Popkin. “She was always available to answer questions for me before and after each surgery.”
Since 2019, Popkin has been an active cochlear volunteer, participating in and speaking at open houses, mentoring new candidates and offering support. She and two other women who are cochlear implant patients at EVMS Medical Group at ODU cofounded the Virginia Hearing Loss Support Network, a vital resource for individuals with hearing loss, especially those with cochlear implants. The network provides a safe space for socialization and learning about available resources, and it welcomes both family members and friends
“Jane is approachable, honest and open in sharing her own experience,” said Dr. Moody Antonio. “Her energy and enthusiasm for helping others is inspiring, and I am so grateful to her for what she has done to reduce the anxieties and stigmas related to hearing loss in our community.”
Popkin’s involvement extends beyond her support group. She also has played a crucial role in the Hearing Loss Association of America’s Virginia Beach Chapter and volunteers with Access Virginia. Her support for these organizations highlights her commitment to advocating for the hearing loss community on multiple fronts.
After the cochlear implant surgeries, Dr. Moody Antonio referred Popkin to a speech-language pathologist for structured aural rehabilitation. This rehabilitation helped her improve her speech understanding and music appreciation, enabling her to pursue lessons in classical guitar, which her specialist recommended. Popkin also credits her audiologist, Anna Louthan, Au.D., CCC-A, for her contributions to educational outreach, including creating videos about cochlear implants, which Popkin and her group have shared on their Facebook page.
Popkin’s story is a powerful reminder of the difference one individual can make in the lives of many.
“I would tell someone who is nervous not to hesitate to ask any questions before and after surgery,” said Popkin. “Be prepared for a period of adjustment after surgery. It takes time for the brain to adapt to processing sounds with a cochlear implant.”
For more information on cochlear implants and to make an appointment contact EVMS Ear, Nose & Throat Surgeons at 757-388-6200.
Originally published in Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University Magazine Issue 1.1.