Learning to communicate through sign language

Shannon LeClair
Times Reporter

 

When your ability to communicate has been drastically altered, as is the case with Dee-Ann Wagner-Mercer, it can feel a little lonely.
She was diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis 2, NF2, when she was 13-years-old. In high school she noticed her hearing was changing, and in 2001 things changed drastically.
Now deaf, and legally blind, finding ways to talk with friends, or new people, as the out-going mom once did is tough. Not many people know sign language, nor do many think about the fact they can bring a notepad, or a tablet as a way to communicate with her.
That’s why on Thursday nights, from 4-5 p.m. now until June 25 at the Strathmore Municipal Library, she is teaching people how to sign.
“We’ve always encouraged our patrons to bring their ideas to the library. In the past we have accommodated many great suggestions from patrons and this one was such a unique opportunity that we simply could not pass up,” said Carmen Erison, assistant director of library services.
The first night was held on May 14, and Wagner-Mercer said she was touched by how many people showed a keen interest to learn.
“Everyone is welcome to the group regardless of age or skill level. My idea was to get people together visiting in sign language … Deafness can be a lonely place,” said Wagner-Mercer.
“I’m stepping out of my comfort zone to try and get more out there in the community. I’ve tried to set an example for my daughter about giving to our community, I also didn’t want her seeing her mom hiding in the house because she is deaf. Trust me it’s very easy to do.
“I want her to see I’m doing my best to overcome obstacles thrown at me. I’d like to be an active member of our community. The more people in our community that are able to communicate with our deaf members in Strathmore, makes it much less isolating.”
The group was made up of a mix of advanced signers, and beginners. There were also five kids between the ages of three and 10 who attended the first week. Wagner-Mercer said for now they are learning the alphabet and basic signing.
Once everyone is more comfortable with sign they plan to work on lessons from ASLU, which is an online course for learning American Sign Language (ASL); their website can be found at www.lifeprint.com.
Wagner-Mercer does have permission to use the website and course, but did say she is not certified, she is just showing others how to communicate with her.
“Learning such a visual language is much better done in groups, in person and with practice. If you don’t use it you lose it,” said Wagner-Mercer.
“A great way to learn sign language is to dive in and start using it regardless of your level. The more you use it the better and more comfy a user will become.”
There are two deaf members in the group, including Wagner-Mercer.
She said the plan for now is to take a break near the end of June for the summer, and then come back in the fall.
It’s also fitting that she began the classes in May, which is Neurofibromatosis Month, the condition she has. NF2 is rare, occurring in one out of 25,000 births. Multiple tumours and lesions, mostly occurring on the cranial and spinal nerves, are NF2’s most common characterization. Hearing loss in the teenage years or early 20s is generally the first symptom.