With each opportunity and over time, these events built my confidence and I got more and more comfortable using my voice. This journey of self-advocacy is a cycle that basically reinforces itself. The more I speak up, the easier it gets. The easier it gets, the more confident I become. Having this confidence allows me to use that voice that I have found over time, to make myself as comfortable as possible in the most uncomfortable places I may find myself in. Increased self-confidence provides a stronger sense of control over your life, and reinforces belief in yourself to take risks and put yourself in challenging situations.

SPEAK UP AND RAISE AWARENESS

I have been speaking up since I was young, because living with Usher Syndrome means people often misunderstand what I need or what I can or cannot do. They might not believe I have a disability, because I don't "look" like I have a disability, which can lead to awkward situations. Sometimes, even when they know they make assumptions. This is why awareness is important and how young people can really make a difference in confronting those assumptions. I believe people listen differently when it is coming from someone who is young. I think that is why Cochlear's Achieve Anything Program named my brother and me, as well as many other young cochlear implant recipients "National Inspirers" for creating awareness in the world. Speaking up and advocating when we are young inspires others to learn, and make a difference by being involved or even donating to a cause. I think it can generate action, create positive change and be motivating to others who have their own challenges. Sharing my story in fifth grade actually inspired a classmate to open up about her own challenges, something she'd kept hidden before.

Speaking up is important, but raising awareness about disabilities and hidden disabilities goes beyond just using your voice. Not everyone feels comfortable speaking up about their disability and that's okay! There are many ways to advocate for hidden disabilities. A little over a year ago, I found out about The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program. By wearing a sunflower lanyard, you can discreetly let others know you have a hidden disability and might need some extra support or understanding. It's a simple way to "speak up" without having to say a word. The program also offers personalized cards with symbol icons that explain your specific hidden disability or disabilities. This allows you to easily share your needs with others, when necessary. This program is international across many countries and growing all the time.

USING YOUR VOICE IN A DIFFERENT WAY

Speaking up for yourself is important, but sometimes it's not about using your voice literally. Disability services are another powerful way to advocate for yourself and your needs. By accessing these services, we are creating greater accessibility and inclusivity. Using disability services, like boarding a plane early or having an accessibility pass at a theme park, help you participate and experience the world to the fullest. They are not shortcuts, they are tools to help you have equal access and achieve your full potential. In 2022 I was one of eight first-year students at the Rochester Institute of Technology selected to become the university's first Microsoft Disability Leadership Scholars to advocate and educate about disabilities. It is exciting to have this opportunity to speak up and add my voice in the effort to create a future where everyone has the tools they need to succeed.

HONEST GUIDANCE: Gavin pictured with his folding cane. "Ask me what I need, don't do what you think I need. By asking someone what they need, you show respect for their independence. It helps to build trust that someone is genuinely trying to provide support."

SMART CARD: Gavin's personalized Hidden Disabilities card; "Disability services are there to help you participate and experience the world to the fullest. They're not shortcuts, they are tools to help you have equal access and achieve your full potential."