When Halle was born a year later and was also diagnosed with hearing loss, the family knew where to turn.

Both girls began with hearing aids before receiving cochlear implants shortly before turning three. Growing up with a sister on the same journey has created a special bond between them.

“The best thing about having my little sister on the journey is that I know I’m not alone, and that she’s experiencing the same thing I am,” Mia says.

Today, Mia and Halle are confident, funny and independent young people who love school, spending time with friends and dancing several times a week. Their hearing loss sometimes requires a little extra preparation or concentration, but it does not define what they can do.

Tara describes The Shepherd Centre’s role in helping the girls reach this point as “crucial”. Along with listening and spoken language therapy, the family received the practical guidance and emotional support they needed to navigate each new stage.

Mia and Halle’s story is about far more than hearing loss. It is about a family that kept moving forward, parents who made sure their daughters had the support they needed, and two sisters who have grown up listening, learning, laughing and dancing side by side.

This year, Mia and Halle will represent The Shepherd Centre as ambassadors for Power of Speech and Loud Shirt Day, sharing their story at Australian Parliament House. “It’s an honour to share our story,” Mia says. “I’m just so proud of both of us and how far we’ve come.”

By wearing a loud shirt and donating this Loud Shirt Day, you can help more children like Mia and Halle access the specialist audiology, therapy and family support they need.

Every loud shirt worn and every dollar raised helps children with hearing loss learn to listen, speak and confidently take on the world, with their families and perhaps even a sister by their side.