Binaural Hearing is important
Barnie was considered to communicate too well to have an implant. Read Barnie's story.
My story is quite different to most. I have been associated with the Cochlear Implant Club and Advisory Association (CICADA) since 1984 which was around the time it got started. But I personally didn't become part of the Cochlear Implant program until 1997 after I returned from International Federation of Hard of Hearing (IFHOH) in Graz 1996.
While I was in Graz I had spoken about the ethics of the Cochlear Program in Australia and was offered an Austrian Implant. However, at that time I declined even though the Spokesperson for the Austrian Cochlear Implant company was a stunning blonde.
The first time I was offered an implant I declined
At that time, although I had and 80%+ hearing loss I was considered able to communicate too well to benefit from an implant. My hearing deteriorated to a 90%+ loss but it was still thought I would not benefit from an implant until 2006, when the new FREEDOM Processor became available. I went through all the tests again during the early part of that year and then in August went into the North Sydney Mater and had the transplant operation by Professor Bill (Gibson). My switch-on was done by Carmel in Newcastle in mid September 2006.
I have always been binaural, so I prefer to wear both my processor and a hearing aid in my other ear to function properly even though the hearing in my right ear is now below 96%. Having sound coming from both sides means I function better when I wear both devices, although I now rely on the greater input through my Cochlear Implant.
First thing every morning I put on my processor and hearing aid, and they come out when I go to bed. Since having my implant I can now hear music, and in Church I no longer need to watch the Priest's breathing and Lipspeaking to sing the Hymns. I can do many things I could not have and at present I am involved with the HMAS SYDNEY II controversy and working to clear the name of Captain Burnett of any wrong doing.
I do plan that when the hearing in my right ear goes completely, I'll be assessed for an implant in that ear so that I can remain binaural.