4 Life Lessons from Kylie’s Journey
Support systems matter
Your disability doesn’t define you
Keep going, even when it’s hard
Give back to grow
💛 Your Donation Has Real Impact
We serve around 475 children each month across California, offering services completely free to families thanks to donors like you.
$125 could provide one hour of speech-language therapy
$500 could fund a month of therapy for a child like Kylie
Any amount brings confidence, connection, and a brighter future
“RiteCare taught me to use my voice. Now I want to help other kids find theirs.”— Kylie Anderson
Frequency
One time
Monthly
Yearly
Amount
$25
$50
$100
$125
$365
$500
$1,000
Other
0/100
Comment (optional)
A Moment That Changed Everything
Kylie was just a second grader when she lost her hearing within a two-hour window after hitting her head in a pool. Her parents were at a loss—unsure of what came next or how to help her navigate a new world of silence.
Thankfully, with support from her school, her community, and the RiteCare Childhood Language Center of Stockton, a new path forward began.
“She went from completely deaf to bubble-blowing and smiling after her cochlear implant surgery. That spark—that resilience—was because she was prepared. Scottish Rite made sure of it.”
"Your Hearing Doesn't Define You"
Kylie’s beloved ASL interpreter, Veronika Peknik, told her something that changed everything:
“Your hearing does not define you. You can do whatever you want in life.”
Kylie believed her. And so did her parents. From that moment on, she faced every challenge with bravery—and a fierce determination not to let hearing loss limit her dreams.
From Summer Camp Student to Youth Advocate
Kylie Anderson was just 7 years old when she lost her hearing due to Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct Syndrome (EVA). She faced a world that suddenly became silent—and yet, she chose to speak up.
Thanks to the RiteCare Childhood Language Center of Stockton, Kylie received the specialized therapy she needed to adjust to her cochlear implants, rebuild her speech, and find her voice again.
Today, she’s not just thriving—she’s advocating for others like her.
Kylie is now the 2025-2026 Ambassador for the California Scottish Rite Foundation, using her story to help children across the state access the same life-changing speech and language therapy she did.
Kylie's Journey:
Timeline Highlights
Diagnosed with EVA Syndrome in 1st Grade
2014
Lost hearing; began cochlear implant journey
2016
Attended and later volunteered at Scottish Rite Summer Camps
2016 - 2024
Received speech therapy through CASRF
2017 - 2024
Raised $800+ for Scottish Rite through her advocacy projects
2023 - 2024
Named CASRF’s Inaugural Youth Ambassador
2025
