
Last Wednesday, February 25, was international cochlear implant day. I’ve been meaning to take a moment to write this blog, but life has been busy lately. I didn’t want to miss an opportunity to write about how this technology has impacted me personally. Almost 20 years ago, I underwent cochlear implant surgery on my right ear. It’s incredible how times flies and how much I rely on and appreciate this technology.
I’d like to clear something up. Cochlear implants don’t restore your natural hearing or bring it back. The sound is different than the way a hearing person hears sound. Cochlear implants stimulate the auditory nerve by electrical impulses to the brain via implanted electrodes. Your brain has to learn how to interpret those signals. It’s takes time, patience and much practice. I’m almost 20 years into the journey and still adjusting. Every time I go to the audiologist for a “map” or computer program update to the processor and implanted device, I have to adjust again. The technology is always evolving and improving and our brains have to adjust every time.
Would I do it again? In a heart beat! This has been such a huge blessing even through there are obstacles to navigate, adding my low vision to the mix makes it even more challenging. Do people around me expect me to hear like normal people? It depends; some do, some don’t . Without my external processor on, which you see in the above picture, I can comprehend no speech. With my processor on I hear most environmental sounds, musical instruments, birds singing, wind chimes, and language. Does my brain process all the language? No, not in my own experience, however compared to my lack of comprehension without it, I think I do above average. Many things factor in such a rate of speech, tone, if a voice carries and then there is back ground noise.
I am so thankful it’s an option and a valuable tool I can use to attempt living a more normal life. (But honestly, normal is overrated.)
I know many people with cochlear implants. Some do remarkably well while others don’t like it. It depends on the person and their individual needs. In a world with many having hearing loss, it is a tool to experience the world of sound. I especially love music. I’m not talking about loud music but rather the harmony and beauty of instruments that are a poetic symphony of beauty. It does my hear good to hear such beautiful things. Birdsong is another favorite, followed by the sound of the ocean. It is such a gift to hear such beautiful things. It’s also a gift to occasionally take a break from daily sounds of electronics and chatter in general. Sometimes my brain needs a break from the over stimulation. That’s okay too. Options are nice.
If you meet someone using cochlear implant technology, take time to project your voice clearly and make sure they can also see your face. Many I know who use this technology will listen and lip read at the same time. Being also visually impaired, I don’t really have that option unless the person is close enough for me to see them. Be patient. We are trying hard to understand. If we don’t get it the first time, perhaps a second or third time will help. Just being real. Regardless, I am so beyond thankful for this gift. God is good always!!
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