Heather Leigh Whitestone McCallum (born February 24, 1973) is an American conservative activist and beauty queen who was the first deaf Miss America title holder, having lost most of her hearing at 18 …

The story of Heather Whitestone, the first deaf Miss America, is more than a tale of personal triumph. It is a narrative that weaves together themes of resilience, empowerment, and advocacy.

At the age of 18 months, Whitestone suffered a high fever from the Haemophilus influenzae virus, as well as a likely meningitis. She was given a high dose of two antibiotics. The experience caused …

Miss America 1994 Miss South Carolina 1993Heather Whitestone

Dec 27, 2024 · Heather Whitestone lost most of her hearing at 18 months of age due to a severe case of Hemophilus influenzae virus and subsequent high fevers, which caused permanent damage to her …

Aug 10, 2025 · As an influential person in the deaf community and the first woman ever with a disability to win Miss America, Heather Whitestone shows that growing up deaf doesn’t have to hinder your …

Heather has been one of the foremost advocates in the United States for those with disabilities. As Miss America, she partnered with the Alexander Graham Bell Foundation to spear head a national …