[Nfb-krafters-korner] OT: Cochlear Implant

[Barb Roland]

Hi Everyone, this is totally off topic, but I know some of you have wondered where I’ve been lately, not teaching nor taking phone classes. I wear hearing aids in both ears and have been having issues with them over the last few months making it hard for me to understand what is being said weather in person or over the phone.
I am excited to say that today I found out that I am a candidate for a cochlear implant which is a hearing aid type device that is implanted in the head/ear. This device will not restore normal hearing but is much more advanced than a regular hearing aid. Once implanted I will have to do some intensive listening training to train my brain and ear to “hear and understand” sounds I’ve been missing or have never heard. I’m told this training can take up to a year and that listening on the phone is usually one of the last things to be accomplished, however I’m motivated to get back to teaching and taking classes so will be moving that part up the level of priority :D.

I will meet with the surgeon on Sept. 10th and if all goes well we will schedule the surgery at that time. So have no fear I WILL BE BACK!!!
I will still be able to take email classes and may consider teaching one, will just have to see how things go.

In the meantime, I’m SO excited, doing the snoopy dance and already getting impatient! lol

Barb