From the article: Growing Up Deaf - Family Holidays
It is normal for a deaf or hard-of-hearing person to feel left out in a social situation. We'd like to know how you cope when that happens? Do you have any tips for getting through an event in which you may be the only deaf or hard-of-hearing person?
Take Care of Yourself
- Given that I am 56 years old, I generally choose not to be present in the groups which do not adapt to my needs. If I "have" to be there, I take a book, knitting, go for a walk, play with the little ones, etc. Being miserable is not an option. If someone complains of my choice, I express an interest in visiting with the individual. One of two things happens, they'll take responsibility for inclusion 0R they leave me alone because they don't want to "do the work". Either way, I win in the long run. It comes down to this..., I maintain the relationships of value to me and its their job to maintain the relationships of value to them.
- —Guest coping with feeling left out
