Residents of Windsor meet Gordie Howe as he attends Better Speech and Hearing Month events

Windsor, Ontario, May 7th, 2010: Hockey Hall of Famer Gordie Howe connected with Windsorites recently by sharing his experiences concerning hearing loss. Open houses promoting awareness about the importance of better hearing were held at the Helix Hearing Care Centre on Tecumseh Road.

The event included hearing screenings and evaluations, demonstrations of the latest in hearing aid technology, and the opportunity to meet Mr. Hockey himself. Gordie described his involvement "as a great opportunity I couldn't give up because I know how hearing loss can impact your life, both personally and professionally. Canadians need to be more informed about the consequences of neglecting their hearing. I want to encourage people to take the steps I've taken towards better hearing."

Hearing loss is caused not only by aging, but by exposure to loud noises. It is the fastest growing, and one of the most prevalent, chronic conditions facing Canadians today. Unfortunately, it is increasingly becoming a problem for younger Canadians too, whose lifestyles are now inundated with loud noises from personal hearing devices and other sources.

Jeff Geigel, president of Helix, said that his company "spotlights Better Speech and Hearing Month every year in order to encourage Canadians to view hearing care as an integral and important part of their overall health. During the month of May, we try to eliminate the stigma that keeps Canadians from addressing their hearing problems because studies show that it is a serious medical problem. Thankfully, Mr. Howe jumped on board to help us get the message out."

Click below to view a photo from the event:

For more information on Helix Hearing Care Centre and Gordie Howe's campaign to educate Canadians about hearing healthcare, call 877-685-5EAR (5327).