While those hoping for change would like to see coverage extended to everyone, they assert that at the very least, there should be some help for children.

"That's what blows my mind," Evans said. "Why, when it is so critical for a child who is developing in language, developing in self esteem, developing in socialization, isn't there any coverage? Hearing aids could make all the difference in that child's life."

Paxton believes, in part, that a pervasive ignorance related to deafness and hard-of-hearing issues is to blame.

"There is not an awareness out there. Another parent is going to find out their child is deaf and say, 'Thank goodness I have insurance' and they will find it isn't so. They will go through the same battle we have."

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E-mail: amyjoi@desnews.com