I am a late deafened adult (my wife debates the "Adult" part of that statement) and a geek by nature. I was fortunate to be part of an early Spark show, when Nora interviewed me about my Cochlear Implant. The loss of my hearing rather suddenly in my mid 40's was totally devastating, I can't adequately describe the emotions I experienced, loneliness, depression, anger, helplessness it was a terrible experience. I was fortunate enough to be able to continue to work – with the support of family, some wonderful co-workers, and a very supportive employer; I don’t know how I would have coped had I not had that. I was also VERY fortunate to receive a Cochlear Implant in June of 2005, which has given me my life back – I describe it as a “Life Improving device” and that does not do it justice! Thinking back to the 70’s TV shows “The Six Million Dollar Man” & it’s spinoff “The Six Million Dollar Woman” I watched when I was in my teens I never would have believe I would some day be “Bionic” (well a little bionic – call me a Twenty five thousand dollar Geek).

For more information on Cochlear Implants Click Here or if you have questions about Hearing Loss check this site, you can also check this site and the Message Forums where you can find me there under the handle gigabyte.

"Ears Hopin"

Yours was one of my favorite stories on Spark. I've seen some people making disparaging remarks about cochlear implants, some relating to tone loss. I'm glad that yours has made a positive difference to your quality of life. - asb

contributed by Andy Ball on Jan 23 8:57am