Recently, Rylee travelled to Denver with the Deaf Football Australia women’s team to compete against the World Champions, USA. She has also been accepted into the women’s team to represent Australia at the Deaflympics in Japan in 2025. Rylee credits her Baha System for making her soccer success possible.
“It means so much to me … to be able to raise awareness, not just for the soccer team that I’m playing for now, but also to show that we are just like anyone else, is an amazing opportunity,” Rylee says.
Cochlear America sponsored her for the trip and she also visited the Denver office.
Becoming a paramedic
Rylee, who uses a Baha 6 Max Sound Processor, is pursuing a career as a paramedic.
She says, “I was always told that I was never going to be able to do anything that involved being on the road. Having the freedom to actually do what I want to do, instead of being told to have an office job because of hearing loss, is amazing.”
Rylee’s determination and success in her studies and on the football pitch are testaments to her resilience.
“It’s an amazing feeling every single time I am able to help someone. I’ve had a lot of health issues growing up, and being able to help others is like nothing else.”
Committed to raising awareness
Rylee’s commitment to raising awareness about hearing loss is deeply personal. Growing up, she faced bullying and academic struggles due to her hearing loss, which was rarely discussed. Since receiving her implant in 2013, Rylee has become a passionate advocate for regular hearing checks and the use of hearing devices.
“Raising awareness means so much to me. There are so many different implants and devices now that can improve your hearing. But many people, even in their 20s, struggle in some hearing environments. Go get your ears checked,” she advises.
Rylee’s story is not just about her accomplishments; it’s also about the confidence and opportunities that her Baha System has given her.
“I used to be very quiet, but now I’m open and excited to share my story. It’s so exciting to have interviews and photos taken,” she says.
