Deaf Mother of Six Breaks Barriers in Medical School Journey

A deaf mother of six from North Texas is making remarkable strides in her pursuit of a medical career. Nicole Everitt recently achieved a significant milestone by starting her studies at the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine at the UNT Health Science Center in Fort Worth, Texas. At a special ceremony, she received a customized digital, Bluetooth-enabled stethoscope designed to connect with her hearing aids, allowing her to hear heartbeats clearly. This advanced technology has opened doors for her in her ambition to become a surgeon.

Everitt expressed her excitement about the stethoscope, which she described as “amplified and digital.” In an interview with WFAA, she emphasized how this device has enabled her to access sounds that she once thought were out of reach. As of 2019, the Association of American Medical Colleges reported that fewer than 40 medical students in the United States identified as deaf or hard of hearing, representing approximately 0.04% of the total medical student population of around 90,000.

The inspiration for Everitt’s journey began during her tenth-grade year, following a hospital visit that left her feeling “electric.” However, she initially believed that a career in medicine was unattainable. It was not until she watched reruns of the television series E.R. that she saw a deaf physician portrayed on screen, which profoundly impacted her perspective. “That, to me, was… the door opened,” she remarked. This pivotal moment shifted her mindset, encouraging her to pursue her dream despite the barriers she faced.

Everitt’s journey has been anything but conventional, and she embraces this uniqueness. “You can do anything that you put your mind to,” she stated, emphasizing that success does not have to conform to traditional timelines. With her children supporting her aspirations and her specialized stethoscope in hand, she embodies hope for others who may feel unheard or underestimated.

Reflecting on her experience, Everitt noted the importance of representation, stating that she had never seen a deaf physician in real life or in the media until the impactful portrayal on television. Her journey is a testament to resilience and determination, as she challenges preconceived notions about disabilities and what it means to be a medical professional.

“Your path might look a little different, and that’s okay,” Everitt added. “Just keep going.” Her story serves as an inspiration not only to aspiring medical students with disabilities but also to anyone facing obstacles in their pursuit of a dream. As she continues her medical education, Everitt is not merely pursuing a career; she is also paving the way for future generations to follow in her footsteps.