Hi, my name is Yosef Gavert. I’m 25 years old, and I’m deaf with two cochlear implants. My journey with hearing loss began early—I was born hearing but had progressive hearing loss in both ears when I was just five months old. At three, I received my first cochlear implant. Those early years were incredibly challenging, as I struggled to speak and hear, but the support and encouragement from my parents and siblings made all the difference.
My parents were determined to help me communicate and live a full life. They enrolled me in speech therapy, but we quickly faced a significant hurdle. The speech therapist asked my mom whether she wanted me to learn speech or sign language, stating that the law required us to choose one. My mom’s response was immediate and heartfelt—she wanted me to learn both. However, the therapist insisted that only one option was permissible. Despite the absurdity of this restriction, my mom chose speech, believing it was crucial for me to communicate with my family and friends.
Thus began my 16-year journey in speech therapy. It was an incredibly tough road. I spent countless hours practicing sounds, words, and sentences, often feeling frustrated and exhausted. There were times when I wanted to give up, but my parents’ unwavering support and belief in my potential kept me going. My siblings also played a vital role, always encouraging me and helping me practice. Their love and support were my anchors.
At the age of 13, I entered a new chapter of my life by attending a deaf school. Here, I encountered another world—one that communicated primarily through sign language. Initially, I felt out of place, struggling to keep up with my peers. But as I began to learn sign language, I fell in love with it. The fluidity and expressiveness of ASL captivated me, and I immersed myself in it, determined to become fluent. It took me three to four years, but I eventually mastered ASL, opening up a new realm of communication and connection.
Being part of both the deaf and hearing worlds has been a profound experience. In the hearing world, my ability to speak has provided numerous opportunities, from education to employment. In the deaf world, my fluency in sign language has allowed me to connect deeply with others, fostering a sense of community and belonging. I am incredibly proud to be part of both these worlds, as they have shaped who I am today.
Today, I am an ASL teacher, sharing my passion for sign language with my students. Teaching ASL is not just a job for me—it is a calling. I am also a business owner, striving to bridge the gap between the deaf and hearing communities. Through my work, I aim to promote understanding, inclusivity, and respect for both forms of communication.
Reflecting on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for my family’s unwavering support and the opportunities that have come my way. I have learned that perseverance, resilience, and the belief in one’s potential can overcome even the most daunting challenges. My story is a testament to the power of love, determination, and the human spirit.
Thank you for reading my story. I hope it inspires you to embrace your unique journey, face your challenges with courage, and believe in the power of your dreams. I look forward to sharing more of my experiences and insights with you.