I guess not being able to hear just made me adventurous and daring. And in most cases, that didn't make my parents very happy with me.

I've always wanted to write a book relating my experiences growing up as a deaf child in Chicago. Contrary to what people might think, it wasn't all about hearing aids and speech classes or frustrations.

Why are people so interested in other people's relationships? It's like stealing.

I learned to speak first, and then to sign. I have never really known what it was like to hear, so I cant compare hearing aids to normal hearing.

I find the mantle of, she works hard for the money, or, she's overcome so many obstacles a bit overused.

Im in my mid-30s, Ive won an Oscar, I have four children. You figure out if my deafness has adversely affected my life.

I'm different, and my manner invites questions. I'm never afraid to answer.