Approximately 36 million American adults report some degree of hearing loss. West Virginia University students are doing their part to raise awareness and to fund the prevention efforts of students and faculty in the Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology.

Hosted by WVU doctoral students in the Student Academy of Audiology, the second annual MountainEAR 5k (3.1 mile) run/walk will take place on March 17 (St. Patrick’s Day) from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m at Hazel Ruby McQuain Park. The entry fee is $15 for registration by March 10 and increases to $20 thereafter. Participants also receive a free t-shirt.

“This is a unique event in that no other fundraiser in the area focuses on communication disorders,” said Dr. Ashleigh Callahan, WVU audiology professor and Student Academy of Audiology sponsor. “The majority of the proceeds are donated to a fund to assist WVU Speech and Hearing Clinic patients with financial limitations.”

The course features an out-and-back path along the Caperton Trail, which entirely parallels the Monongahela River from Hazel Ruby-McQuain Park to the turnaround near the Morgantown Utility Board water plant.

“A large amount of this hearing loss can be prevented through proper hearing conservation measures,” Callahan said. “The MountainEAR 5k is designed to raise awareness in the community about hearing loss and other communication disorders.”

For more information or to register for the MountainEAR 5k, visit http://phdispatch.com/mountainear-5k/

-WVU-

02/09/12

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CONTACT: Christie Zachary, College of Human Resources & Education
304-293-0224