[NFB-DB] Cochlear Implant Advise

[Danielle Burton]

Hi Eric, 
My name's Danielle. I'm a colege student and am DeafBlind. I do not have a cochlear implant myself so I can't answer all your questions. But I am willing to discuss some strategies I have used when hearing isn't an option. I would be happy  to give you some resources and can answer some of your questions about independence regardless of whether your son receives a cochlear implant or not. My email address is: danielleburton94 at gmail.com     

Danielle Burton, Secretary National Federation of the Blind DeafBlind Division 
Email: danielleburton94 at gmail.com
Phone: 859-469-6260  

> On Apr 9, 2018, at 1:15 AM, Eric V via NFB-DB <nfb-db at nfbnet.org> wrote:
> 
> Dear Division Members,
> We are considering a cochlear implant for our youngest son & would really appreciate your input & insights.
> A bit of background: He attends our local high school where he is a sophomore. He is totally blind without light perception, a fluent braille reader, super-techie, & loves to swim & sing in our church choir.
> We first noticed his hearing was not as good on the left around 4th or 5th grade, & by 6th grade he got hearing aids on both sides. He has been using the FM system in school for some classes & doesn’t find it helpful for others.
> His hearing had been stable for about 2 years. The last 2-3 months however he has seemed to have had more difficulty hearing on & off at school & home too, but it was somewhat inconsistent & he had a few colds, but the last 4 weeks or so, we have been having to repeat things more & talk louder. His recent audiologist appointment confirmed the significant & definite reduction. MRI is normal. We saw a neurotologist who is recommending a cochlear implant on the left. On the right, he has moderate hearing loss & has been getting by with the hearing aids. In a quieter environment outside of school he often prefers not to use even the right hearing aid. 
> Questions:
> Are there any special considerations given the total blindness & partial, though poor, hearing on the 1 “good” side?
> From a independent travel, mobility standpoint how good/accurate is localization with a cochlear implant?
> There are several cochlear implant systems on the market; any thoughts on which is best, or best for a teenage techie?
> Is there something newer & better in the near horizon that might be worth waiting a year or 2 for?
> Following a cochlear implant is there any residual hearing in the ear the procedure was performed on?
> Our son enjoys swimming – does that affect choice of cochlear implant systems?
> Are there other questions we should be asking or things we need to consider?
> We live in Los Angeles, but are very willing to travel if that is what is best. Any thoughts on who is best to perform the procedure?
> Thank you very much for your thoughts & advice in advance.
> All the best,
> Eric 
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