Born-deaf racer inspires kids
His words were inspirational for children, who like him, would hear nothing if not for their cochlear implants.
Kris Martin was born profoundly deaf, but thanks to the cochlear implant and his own determination he became a race car driver and a role model to deaf children who gathered to meet him on Saturday at the Western Fair's Agriplex for the CPT Racing Experience.
"It's my turn to give back," Martin said. "I'm teaching kids how their dreams can come true."
His efforts were appreciated by parents who brought their children to meet him.
"It gives (our son) Nathan someone to look up to," said Jeff Wyllie, whose nine-year-old son received a CI at age two, early enough that both his hearing and speaking skills are almost indistinguishable from any child his age.
That was also the feeling of France Riviere-Quintanilla, who has two sons with implants - Marco is nine and Ricky is 11.
"This is pretty cool. He has an implant like me," Ricky said.
Read more about how Kris has defied the odds, here.
Find out more about Kris at www.krismartinracingteam.com
