As HearWell Center celebrates its 19th year, I’m reflecting with deep gratitude for our wonderful patients, our dedicated staff, and the continued trust from our community. It’s truly an honor to lead a small, independent practice that continues to grow and welcome new patients every day.
For those who’ve been with us a while, you’ll remember that two years ago we moved from Forest Hills to our new home in Wilkins Township. With that move came new systems, new faces, and new opportunities for growth. It’s been a whirlwind — the busiest and most rewarding two years since HearWell Center first opened in 2007.
These transitions weren’t just about expanding the practice. They were also about sustainability. For over 16 years, I served as the sole audiologist and owner, carrying an ever-growing patient caseload. I was incredibly thankful for the community’s trust but needed to solve challenges with scheduling and access to care. Bringing new providers aboard has allowed us to better serve you and ensure the practice thrives for years to come.
Over the past year, my personal health has also played an important role in shaping the future of HearWell Center. Many of you know that I am deaf and have used cochlear implants for several years — first receiving one in 2018 and eventually becoming bilaterally implanted. These devices have transformed my life and my ability to connect with patients. For eight years, my implants provided exceptional hearing and energy, renewing my connection to both work and my family.
“Bringing new providers aboard has allowed us to better serve you.”
Last year brought an unexpected challenge. My right cochlear implant failed — a rare but possible complication — and I underwent surgery to replace it. The procedure was successful, and I’m now in the process of rehabilitation, retraining my brain to interpret sound through the new device. Due to my cochlea’s structure, each surgery has presented its own unique hurdles, requiring patience and persistence as I relearn to hear.
If you’ve seen me in the office recently, you might have noticed my increased reliance on lipreading or assistive accessories as I continue my auditory training. I appreciate your patience and understanding during this stage of recovery.
Despite these personal challenges, I continue to feel grateful — for the medical technology that makes hearing possible, for the team that supports our patients every day, and for each of you who entrusts us with your hearing care. This journey has reminded me once again of the resilience and hope that hearing restoration can bring.
For those interested in learning more about my experience and the process of auditory rehabilitation, I invite you to visit my blog. With my recovery going well, I’m pleased to share we have increased availability in our schedule. Dr. Lisa Chandonais and I are here to support your hearing health, and we look forward to seeing you.
Warmly,
Dr. Yoder
Owner & Audiologist
HearWell Center