As a member of Delta Zeta, the sophomore nursing student, Pacey Chrastina, traveled to El Salvador back in November of 2024 on a Starkey Hearing mission trip.
Since joining the sorority in 2023, Chrastina has held positions as the community service chair, president of philanthropy, and is currently serving as the vice president of membership.
“Delta Zeta’s philanthropy is hearing and speech, and all of our partners are dedicated to this cause in one way or another,” said Chrastina.
The Starkey Hearing Foundation specializes in community-based methods of healthcare.
The foundations phrase, “So the world may hear,” truly captures the impact that they have made around the globe.
“They are dedicated to giving the gift of hearing to all those in need around the world,” Chrastina said.
In August of last year, Chrastina attended the annual Delta Zeta Philanthropy Summit. There, a drawing took place to select four women to attend a mission trip. After raising over $300, Chrastina’s name was placed in the drawing, where she was randomly chosen.
After arriving in San Salvador, El Salvador, Chrastina was trained in William Franklin Austin (WFA) for fitting hearing aids.
“This method is a behavioral method ensuring everyone who receives a hearing aid hears at their desired volume, because Starkey recognizes that hearing is subject to personal preference,” she explained.
By using this simple and effective method, the group was able to help many people in just a few days.
On the first mission day, nearly 600 patients were lined up and waiting to be fitted for hearing aids.
“This was the most fulfilling and rewarding experience, each patient was just so appreciative and grateful to us for giving them the opportunity to hear,” said Chrastina.
“My heart was so full at the end of the day.”
On the second day, the theme continued.
The second day was just as amazing as the first, full of emotions, tears, and meaningful conversations,” said Chrastina. She continued, “I loved meeting each and every patient that sat in my chair, and getting the opportunity to freely give the gift of hearing was something I will never forget.”
