Jordan Beckingham – The Lasting Impact of Listen and Talk

We are excited to cast our Alumni Spotlight on Jordan Buckingham. Read on to learn about her exciting progress through Listen and Talk and into adulthood.

The Lasting Impact of Listen and Talk

Jordan’s story exemplifies the difference that early support programs like Listen and Talk can make—not just in the lives of children with hearing loss, but in their families and communities. From a little girl playing soccer and going to baseball games to an accomplished adult living her dream, Jordan is proof that with the right tools, support, and perseverance, anything is possible.

Her message to new families is simple yet profound: prioritize your child, lean on your community, and never underestimate the impact of hard work.

Jordan Beckingham exemplifies Listen and Talk’s vision of a world where no child is limited by hearing loss.  Her unwavering strength and determination, along with the support of her family, have been truly remarkable as she’s faced any challenges related to her profound hearing levels. She embodies the power of listening, perseverance, and open communication, demonstrating how these qualities can lead to a fulfilling life. At 22 months old, Jordan Beckingham contracted pneumococcal meningitis, resulting in profound hearing loss. Thanks to critical support from her family, her medical team, and especially Listen and Talk, Jordan thrived. Today, at 33, she is an assistant horse trainer in Middleton, Idaho.

A First at Seattle Children’s

Jordan was the first child at Seattle Children’s Hospital to receive a cochlear implant in 1995. She later received a second implant, allowing her to hear through both ears. Her parents’ dedication and continued support from the University of Washington Medical Center optimizes her listening experience.

Jordan and her parents joined Listen and Talk in 1996, where she became one of the program’s first pre-K students. Working with founder Star Leonard-Fleckman and other professionals, Jordan developed strong listening and spoken language skills, building confidence. Jordan credits Listen and Talk for maximizing her cochlear implant use.

Into Adulthood Living a Life Without Limits

Jordan’s academic journey, from Charles Wright Academy to Stetson University (graduating in 2014 with a Bachelor’s in Family Business and a minor in Management), showcases the impact of early listening and spoken language services.

Today, Jordan combines her love for horses with her profession, training horses and teaching riding lessons. Her work allows her to share her unique perspective and experiences.

Jordan encourages families just starting their hearing journey to be patient, put in the work, build a support system, and do everything possible for their child. She emphasizes that Listen and Talk provides essential resources and a strong community.

Jordan’s story highlights the transformative power of early support programs. Her journey from a child with hearing loss to an accomplished adult proves that with the right tools, support, and perseverance, anything is possible. She embodies Listen and Talk’s vision that no child is limited by hearing loss, demonstrating the power of listening, perseverance, and open communication.