Chula Vista native awarded for outstanding achievements, leadership in hearing loss community

Despite being born with Fraser syndrome, Bertrand excels in her studies, earning the 2026 Anders Tjellström Academic Scholarship from Cochlear.

CHULA VISTA, Calif. — Chula Vista native Kaitlin Bertrand defied the odds after being diagnosed with the rare Fraser Syndrome and has earned the prestigious 2026 Anders Tjellström Academic Scholarship from Cochlear for her outstanding achievements and leadership in the hearing loss community. 

Bertrand was born with Fraser syndrome, which carries severe challenges and a grim prognosis. As a newborn, Bertrand wasn’t expected to make it through the night. Bertrand not only survived but thrived against all expectations. As a child, she faced significant obstacles, including bilateral hearing loss and vision impairment. She is blind in her right eye, which is now a prosthetic. 

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In high school at Bonita Vista High, Bertrand excelled academically, maintaining a remarkable 4.7 GPA. Dancing became an escape for her, with her expressive performances in hip hop, jazz, and salsa allowing her to channel her struggles into creativity. 

“It felt like I was just able to really like put all of my struggles aside and really like dance it out,” she said.

Bertrand’s mother, Rita, emphasized their family’s approach to parenting.

“We’ve always treated her like she is an average child. We have never put limits on her; we let her figure out her limits,” she said. 

This belief in Bertrand’s potential contributed to her resilience and determination.

At 15, Bertrand received a Cochlear Osia implant that significantly enhanced her hearing abilities.

“It completely changed my life and it changed the way that I hear and also the way that I spoke,” she shared. 

Earning the scholarship from Cochlear, a company that has impacted her life profoundly, Kaitlin expressed her gratitude. 

“I was very honored, first of all, to be given a scholarship by the company that quite literally changed my life,” Bertrand said.

Now studying Biomedical Engineering at UC Irvine, Bertrand aspires to become an otolaryngologist, inspired by the medical professionals who helped her transform her life. With plans to continue her journey into medical school, she also hopes to give back to children with similar challenges. 

“I feel like I have learned to be grateful for every second of life because you never know what someone is going through,” Bertrand said.

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Cochlear has awarded eight exceptional students the 2026 academic scholarships, celebrating their perseverance and commitment to improving their communities. 

“Each of our scholarship recipients has shown what’s possible when passion and perseverance come together,” Lisa Aubert, President of Cochlear North America, said.