When Elaine was born, her mother, Lindsey and father, Jash, instantly recognized something familiar. As the days passed, Lindsey’s suspicions were confirmed; Elaine, like her, was deaf.
“At first, I was worried,” Lindsey shares. “I knew what challenges could come with being deaf, and I wanted to make sure Elaine would have the support she needed to grow and connect with others.”
Lindsey found strength in her own story, knowing she had once walked this path and came out stronger because of it. As a proud alumna of FSDB, she knew firsthand how life-changing the right environment could be. FSDB had once given her the tools, the language, and the confidence to thrive. Now, she wanted the same for her daughter.
At just three years old, Elaine began her journey in the FSDB L. Daniel Hutto Early Learning Center (ELC). Like many children born during the pandemic, she faced early challenges with limited communication and social interaction. But everything began to shift once she entered the ELC’s nurturing, language-rich environment.
With the support of skilled teachers and specialists, Elaine’s world began to bloom. Her language and social skills flourished as she discovered new ways to connect. Through signs, expressions, and the warmth of those around her, she began to shine with confidence that touched everyone who met her.
“Because of donors like you,” Lindsey shares, “my daughter gets to be part of the deaf community and feel less different. She’s surrounded by people who understand her and celebrate who she is.”
Today, Elaine is thriving and preparing to enter the first grade in August 2025. She approaches each day with curiosity, joy, and a growing sense of confidence. Surrounded by a community that sees her, supports her, and celebrates her, she is becoming everything her parents dreamed she could be.
Thank you for walking alongside Elaine.