California Woman, Fired As Lifeguard Because Of Her Deafness, Sues Ymca

LOS ANGELES - Being deaf didn't stop Stacy Bradley from getting certified as a lifeguard. It didn't stop her from working as a lifeguard for a year at a YMCA pool in Long Beach.

So why, she asks in a $12 million lawsuit, did it get her fired?

"I was left speechless. I had worked so hard for that accomplishment. It was really hurtful," says Bradley, 21.

Bradley, saying a lifeguard relies on sight more than hearing, is suing in state and federal court, alleging wrongful termination.

The YMCA says it fired Bradley because of a 1994 policy banning deaf lifeguards. Lifeguards, the YMCA contends, need to be able to hear a swimmer shout for help.

"We believe that hearing is an essential requirement for a lifeguard. It comes down to the safety of the children. We just simply don't compromise that," says David Mercer, YMCA executive director in Chicago.

Other lifeguards say the issue isn't clear-cut.

"There's always going to be someone that can do the job no matter what kind of challenge they have. And if the YMCA hired her, she must have been able to do the job," says Kevin Bialas, 24, who has been a public pool manager and lifeguard in Santa Clarita for 5 1/2 years.

But Bialas adds: "I honestly think it helps to be able to hear. Sometimes, even while you're scanning, it's good to have your ears to hear what's going on."

Bradley sued last year. No trial date has been set.

The legal action is at least the second involving a deaf lifeguard for the YMCA. Last year, a federal judge dismissed David Schultz's $20 million suit against the Hockomock Area YMCA in Massachusetts. Schultz's certification was withdrawn by the YMCA after he had worked as a lifeguard, instructor and coach for 16 years. He has appealed.