Kind Flight Attendant Writes Instructions For Deaf 16-Year-Old Flying Alone For The First Time

Sep 26, 2019 by apost team

Trying to get through an airport for the first time is nerve-wracking, especially when you are on your own. However, if you are hearing impaired, it can make the complex journey a true nightmare.

Sixteen-year-old Ashley Ober wanted to fly alone for a recent trip from Baltimore to Rochester, New York. The fact that she's deaf made her mother, Loretta Ober, hesitate. But, Ashley wanted to exercise some independence. The journey wouldn't be easy, but Ashley wanted to do it on her own. Her mom dropped her off at the airport, then waited nearby to make sure Ashley got on the plane. It took a bit, but Loretta got a message from her daughter. She was on the plane.

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Ashley shared a note she received from a Delta flight attendant. It started with,

"Hi Good Morning Ashley. My name is Janna and I will be your flight attendant." The flight attendant told her about the reading light and call attendant buttons up above. She also directed Ashley to where the closest exits were. Finally, the note ended with, "Please don’t hesitate to ask if you need any assistance. Again my name is Janna and welcome aboard our CRJ200 aircraft."

“I put it in my bag,” Ashley told WJLA in an interview. “I still have it. I’m going to cherish that.”

Speaking of the deaf community, Ashley said, "It’s important so they can feel involved and not uncomfortable." Communication is critical for anyone's success. Deaf people just need the ability to communicate effectively. It's a matter of making them feel comfortable and at ease.

Loretta was impressed and relieved and shared the note on twitter.

Delta Airlines released a statement as per WJLA recognizing the flight attendant's thoughtfulness. The airline is also planning on issuing special pins for attendants who know sign language. This will make it easier for deaf customers to find assistance. They said, "Our goal is to make the world a more inclusive place, ensuring travel is easy for all people."

Ashley's journey was made much easier by a moment of thoughtful communication from a flight attendant. What do you think of this story? Let us know your thoughts. Give others the chance to see this for themselves by passing the link along to family and friends.