Published in The Klemzig Neighbourhood Watch Newletter 2008
Transcript - Cochlear Implant Presentation
Felicity Bleckly from the Cochlear Implant Association spoke at our September meeting of her personal struggles and challenges to being a deaf member of society. Her story of being a successful child pianist, to an adult with no hearing at all highlighted to the audience how 'different' life could be...
Did you know that 1 in 4 Australians are deaf, whereas 3 in 4 people aged over 75 also suffer from this problem?
Felicity was not born deaf, but doctors believe a severe case of measles at nine years of age may have started her hearing decline. At age 16 she discovered she had a high frequency sound loss and was diagnosed with tinnitus at 18 years old. For people who are not aware of this problem, it means a constant ringing in your ears with the only cure 'to try and forget about it'.
After waiting for five years Felicity, at aged 52, was given a cochlear implant in a life changing operation. The amazing science behind the cochlear invention has transformed many people's lives, and after 25 years of silence Felicity was able to hear again.
The chance at being able to hear again has transformed Felicity's quality of life back to what it was. She was able to hear her new husband's voice for the first time (even though it sounded a bit feminine at first!) and was now able to speak on the phone to her children who had moved overseas and interstate.
Deafness is a problem affecting many Australians of all ages. To learn more about cochlear products and services please visit the Cochlear web-site
Thank you Felicity for your endearing presentation about hearing loss and sharing your story with us...