HELPING THE DEAF.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21116, 25 February 1932, Page 8

HELPING THE DEAF.

\ PROPOSAL. FOR LEAGUE. NEW/ ZEALAND MOVEMENT. The beginning of a movement to break 'down the barrier which stands between the deaf and those with the fall faculty of hearing has been launched by Mrs. G. A. Hurd-Wood, of Hamilton, who has secured the co-operation of others throughout New Zealand, who are interested in this humane activity. It is proposed to establish a New Zealand League for the Hard of Hearing to further the work. "Very few people realise the great disability from which deaf people suffer," ■aid Mrs. Hurd-Wood yesterday. "A close study of the question, in New Zealand and overseas, has shown me the great possibilities for good that can be developed by an organisation for helping the deaf to help themselves, and thus share in the good things of life at present denied them. Such an organisation would encourage deaf people to face and overcome their disability in so far as it affects their means of livelihood and recreation. "It is proposed to establish branches of the league throughout New Zealand, ■where deaf people may gather to learn lip reading and kindred subjects, and foster a spirit of sociability. My experience as a voluntary teacher of lip reading has shown me the wonderful results that can be obtained and the pleasure that can be brought into the lives of those normally cut off by their deafness from everyday pursuits. ''Judged from an educational, medical, moral and economic standpoint, the question is,, one of national importance, 1 have interested myself in the problem for a number of years, and believe that its solution will not only bring joy to a large number of deaf people, but will prove of the utmost value to the country. Once the public realises the significance of the work I am sure it will be ready to cooperate." The interest which the proposal has aroused among members of the medical profession is shown by the fact that Mrs. Hurd-Wood has been invited to address on March 10 the delegates to the British Medical Association conference, which will be in session in Auckland on that date. She will later address a public meeting in the Hall.