The hearing health foundation held its annual benefit last night at the legendary BB King’s Times Square. The evening began with passing hors devours and cocktails as guests viewed the silent auction’s offerings. Among the offerings were several designer handbags, exotic vacations and sports-themed packages. Guests were invited to bid on these items as well as a few big-ticket items via live auction. The event was hosted by actor Richard Kind, a major supporter of the organization. Kind also served as emcee and introduced the star of the evening 80’s pop icon Cyndi Lauper. Cyndi roused the crowd with spirited renditions of her classic hits including the playfully raunchy “She Bops”.
Though Cyndi brought a great deal of fun and excitement to the event Hearing loss is no laughing matter and the foundation’s primary function to gain funds for research into curing hearing loss. Many Americans experience some sort of hearing loss. The growth of hearing loss cases throughout the nation has grown in recent years due in part to portable music and video player as well as gaming. We often take hearing for granted and this foundation hopes to bring awareness not only to finding a cure but in educating people on prevention. Through their exhaustive efforts, the foundation has raised over half a million dollars to put towards research and development grants for scientists. As a result, scientists have been able to regenerate hair cells on lab mice which could lead to a lasting cure of hearing loss. Though a great deal of progress has been made, we still have a long way to go. To lend a helping hand or to donate please visit www.hearinghealthfoundation.org.
