Thursday, November 22, 2012

I am thankful I can Hear..

It has been months since I blogged due to the new illness that is horrifying. After being diagnosed with cancer this took a toll on me. But, I have to say I am thankful for being able to hear with my processor. Having an interpreter at every appointment just so I dont miss out on something is amazing. Definitely a life saver. The best part is I dont even have to request the interpreters they knew since day one and the cancer center does it automatically for me. Thank Gosh. One less thing to worry about.

Hearing almost everything takes a huge load off me. TREMENDOUSLY. Especially since I go alone to these appointments. There are times I cannot use my processor and I end up having severe anxiety. But again thanks to interpreters it helps a lot.

I hope you all have an amazing Thanksgiving. I miss communicating with all of you and being up to date with all your awesome blogs. It has been awhile since blogging. I sure do miss it. I miss all my friends. But, I just have to focus on this right now.

Soon I hope to be back up and running again...

Happy Thanksgiving!!!


© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Hi Everyone!

Hi Everyone! I have been quite busy. Unfortunality, I was diagnosed with Thyroid Cancer this summer. I had to get surgery and will be starting radiation soon. I am okay just very exhausted. The one thing I am thankful for is my PROCESSOR. Hearing before surgery and having an interpreter by my side really made this easy. That was a big relief for me.

I wanted to share this article with you that irritated me. As a deaf individual, I am highly offended by this schools request. It is bad enough that those of us with a sever hearing loss struggle to communicate as it is. I am not the type to "sue" people but I would definitely sue this school for discriminationCommon like a 3 year old is a threat? Give me a break... UNREAL.
3-Year-Old Deaf Boy, Told By Preschool To Change Way He Signs His Name

I would love to know what you think about this article.

Honestly, I cannot believe summer is almost over. Time sure does fly by.




© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Thursday, July 5, 2012

Your Child's Hearing

If you are you a parent of a child who is hard of hearing or Deaf, the most important thing you need to know is YOU ARE NOT ALONE!

I am sure when you first heard the news it was overwhelming for you.  I have to tell you in this world today we have such amazing technology. The best part about all this is you also have amazing support. There are tons of support groups. Support groups is something my parents NEVER HAD. They didn't know what to do for me because not one professional guided them the right way.


Thats why this post is important to me.

These two websites below will help you get a head start on your child's hearing loss.

My Baby's Hearing

Beginnings for parents of children who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing

There are support groups you can join. You can talk with other parents. There are a lot more support groups out there. I also know on face book there are many groups.  The three support groups below are very well known. I know alot of people who are on them and find them to be helpful.

CIcircle


CIhear


learn2hear


If anyone knows of another support group please let me know and I will add it to this list. Thanks :)




© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

American Girl Doll has hearing aids for their dolls

American Girl now has hearing aids for their dolls.  Isn't this awesome? We have to get them to make one for cochlear implant recipients.  

I love how American Girl not only has hearing aids for the dolls but other products such as no hair, wheelchairs etc. To bad we didn't have this stuff when we were younger. Oh how I wish I can be a kid all over again.

This is perfect if your child has hearing aids. She would love this!


Above click the link and it bring you right to the website. Scroll down and you will see hearing aids. Click on that and it will bring up a page.






© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Wednesday, July 4, 2012

Hearing the Ocean

The other night I went with my friend to the beach. Since I couldn't exercise I decided to go down by the water to hear the ocean for the first time. My entire life I wore hearing aids up until I couldnt benefit from them anymore. It's amazing that I can hear the ocean with my processor. I didnt have the opportunity to hear water growing up.

Hearing the ocean with my processor for the very first time was overwhelming for me. I didn't get the chance to do this last summer with my first implant because the implant failed.

At first the waves seemed so loud because I was standing right in the water. After a few minutes the water became so peaceful to me. I wanted to sit there all night.

I had the perfect night for this moment. There was a clear sky and full moon.  I even took an eight minute video so I can listen to the waves over and over again. That night when I came home before bed I listened to the waves again.









© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

X- Ray's

Today, I had to get some X rays done of my spine, legs and neck.  I was nervous to step foot into the X-Ray room with my processor on. I am aware that I can have x rays done just not MRI's.

The first thing I did was tell the technician I was deaf and without my implant I cannot hear. I also told her I cannot have MRI's. She even knew what a cochlear Implant was and new that I couldn't have MRI's. I was surprised.

For the first x-ray she told me to take off the processor. Then for the rest of the x rays I  left my put processor on. This was nice to communicate with such ease when she was around the bend by the computer. I even hear the machine talking slowly saying " Breath in" " Breath out".   I even heard a new sound today while she was moving the monitor I heard a beeping sound.   Totally awesome. I will probably brag forever once again being able to hear saved my life because its one LESS thing I have to worry about.

Then I had to get more blood work done today. I heard this new sound. I cant explain it but when the technician put the needle in my arm and put the tube in. Thats what i heard the Tube making a clicking noise. Last Friday when I had blood work done I didnt hear that!

On top of a very very busy month with Dr.'s the best thing hearing is a little princess saying
"Aunt D I love you with all my heart" or " Aunt D I love you so much" as she squeezes my leg so tight.


Priceless!



© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Visit to my surgeons office

Yesterday I went into the city because I had an appointment with my surgeon. Remember the pain I was experiencing on my implant side as well as the other side of my head?  I now  have whats called TMJ syndrome. He also asked if I have trouble swallowing at night. Dr. A looked at my ear and asked if I had pain on the other side of my head too. The reason why I cannot sleep on my implant side is because of the TMJ. TMJ is flaring up. I have heard of TMJ years ago but I didn't know much about it until now.

Then Dr A. put his fingers in my mouth and it HURT!  He saids that I have to go to the dentist and get a " Night Guard". This is something I am not going to want to do. The night guard will help with the pain. He also thinks that I grind my teeth. I honestly dont know if I do.  To have some pain relief I have to take Advil every four hours.

I thought I was loosing my mind the last two months. My jaw  has been hurting me as well. I didn't think anything of it because I have to many health issues. So its official I am not loosing my mind.  Not yet at least.

He prescribed me some ear drops called Prednisolone because I told him my ears are so itchy. I also asked him about  Genetic testing because I really want to find out why I was born hearing impaired. This is something I always wanted to do. I just didn't think that was possible.
My surgeon doesn't do genetic testing so he refereed me to someone I called today and the earliest appointment is August 15th. I'm looking forward to this because I want to know the " Real Story".

I hope everyone is having a good summer so far.



© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Friday, June 22, 2012

Summer Time & Travel Information

The last few weeks have been crazy because I am taking a summer class. The first day of summer was Wednesday and it was super hot 100 degrees here in New York.

Yesterday I went into the pool with my niece because it was another hot day. Hearing in the pool is amazing. I can understand what everyone is talking about. I am no longer isolated and confused. I even hear the music blasting.

I experienced something really cool yesterday. Someone jumped into the pool and I heard a big SPLASH!!! Also when you go onto a float the float makes a noise as well. Splashing someone makes a noise too. I DID NOT* go under water with my N5 processor on. I am a bit nervous about that.  All I did was dunk my entire body up to my shoulders. My niece splashed me once and I was able to swim around with no problem at all! You can even hear a noise when you kick in the water.

Totally awesome!!!!!!

Below is an article I wanted to share with you all.


Beatin' the Summer Heat - Nucleus 5 & Nucleus Freedom IP Water Rating









Beatin' the Summer Heat - Nucleus® 5 & Nucleus Freedom™ IP Water Rating
As summer brings water activities, humidity and sweating, you or your child can enjoy the benefits of hearing while participating in summer activities with your Cochlear Nucleus® 5 or Nucleus Freedom™ Sound Processor.

Nucleus 5
The Nucleus 5 Sound Processor is a behind-the-ear sound processor certified to be IP57 water resistant* when using rechargeable batteries. This means that the sound processor is not only splash resistant, it can also be submerged into three feet of still water for up to 30 minutes. 

When using disposable batteries, the Nucleus 5 Sound Processor is certified to be IP44 splash resistant.

Nucleus Freedom
The Nucleus Freedom Sound Processor is certified to be IP44 splash resistant.** This means that recipients can enjoy playing in sprinklers and engaging in sports.
When Hearing Aids are No Longer Enough Webinar
Are hearing aids no longer working well enough for you? Please join the next webinar, "Because Life is Worth Hearing - Solutions for Hearing Loss" on Tuesday, June 26 at 11 AM. Register Today!


Here are some travel tips:

  • Carry your patient ID card with you at all times.Download a printable PDF

  • Cochlear implant recipients can go through the airport security metal detectors because they usually will NOT react to the metal in your Nucleus® Sound Processor. You can also walk through whole body scanners.

  • Bring your own headphones or use a Mains Isolation Cable to listen to music or movies during a flight.

  • Bring spare sound processors with you if you have them.

  • Always pack your spare sound processors inside a carry-on bag. Never place your sound processor directly onto the conveyer belt.

  • You can leave your sound processor on during takeoff and landing.

  • Read the TSA guidelines for traveling as a cochlear implant recipient.




Have a safe and fun Summer!!!!!



© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Saturday, June 9, 2012

Audiological 3 month post re-implantation Evaluation

Today I received my results from the evaluation.

History: In February 2011, Danielle was implanted with a Nucleus C1512 cochlear implant in her right ear. In January of 2012, her device was explanted ( due to reports of intermittency, poor sound quality and static) and she was re implanted with a Nucleus Freedom cochlear implant. Her primary mode of communication is through spoke language; she is also fluent in American Sign Language.

Impressions
  Hearing: Danielle's unaided hearing in her left (un-implanted) ear was assessed as part of this evaluation responses to pure tone stimuli were consistent and repeatable under inster earphones. Danielle demonstrated a moderate sloping to profound hearing loss in her left ear from 250-8000 Hz.

Technology: Danielle came to this evaluation using a MAP in her CP810- speech processor composed in the ACE processing strategy in her right cochlear implant. She was also tested with her own Oticon behind- the-ear  BTE hearing aid coupled to her left ear. She was tested by means of standard audiometry in the soundfield. Responses to narrow band noise were considered to be of good reliability, indicating threshold levels of 10-20 dBHL for the frequency range of 250-6000 Hz with her cochlear implant, and 20-50 dBHL for the frequency range of 250-4000 Hz with her hearing aid. Speech awareness threshold were obtained to low " ba", mid "sh" and high " s" frequency speech stimuli at 5, 5 and 20 dBHL respectively with her cochlear implant and 15, 30 and 30 dBHL respectively with her hearing aid. These findings indicted that Ms. N has full access to speech at normal and soft conversational levels when using her cochlear implant and partial access with her hearing aid.

Speech Perception: Speech discrimination testing was performed at this evaluation using her cochlear implant and hearing aid. 

Test:
CNC word list - Condition- 50dBHL , Right CI  scored 72%
AZ Bio Condition- 50dBHL,  Right CI scored   85%
-------
CNC Word List-  Right CI & Hearing aid- Score  28%
AZ Bio- Right CI & Hearing aid - Score 70%
Recorded- Right CI & Hearing aid- Score 30%

Danielle scores for word and sentence recognition in quiet were judged to be fairly good using the cochlear implant ALONE. Scores in this condition are essentially stable since her previous evaluation in August 2011 (6 months post initial cochlear implant). Score in the bimodal ( CI + HA) condition are significantly lower than scores using the cochlear implant alone. However, it is important to note that today was the first time Ms. N used her hearing aid in combination with her CI.

Recommendations:
1- Continue full time use of cochlear implant.
2- Try using hearing aid in combination with cochlear implant to see if bimodal benefit exists.


Isn't this a great evaluation? I hear very very well with my implant alone. I have to use my hearing aid as well. Which I havent done yet because that day was so overwhelming. To much sound. My audiologist really wants me to have surround sound though. I'll try it tomorrow.

I dont understand anything on the letter what dBHL and 250-6000 Hz means? I am so confused LOL.  

Hope you are having a great day!



© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Thursday, June 7, 2012

Hearing Aids

It has been awhile since I spoken about hearing aids.

Unfortunality as many of you know hearing aids are not covered by insurance companies. This frustrates me because hearing aids are expensive. I grew up wearing many different hearing aids, not realizing my parents paid out so much money just so I can hear. The worst part is I barely used them. 

About two years ago I received my last pair of hearing aids that cost a fortune. This will probably be my last set of aids forever because its so expensive. Unfortunality two days after I received the aids I lost all of my hearing in my right ear. The right one is not being used because now I have the cochlear implant. But, lately I have been using my left hearing aid to watch TV because I have the streamer. When I watch tv whoever is talking on TV will go into my ear. I love this streamer. 

Anyway, I do know that my insurance which is Empire United Healthcare does cover some of the cost of hearing aids. But the catch is its only every 5 five years they ONLY cover $500.00 for each ear.  Then you have to pay the rest out of pocket. I think is ridiculous that WE have to pay a fortune just so we can hear.  BUT insurance companies will pay for a $50,000 surgery? None of this makes sense to me. This is such a frustrating topic for me. In the future I hope insurance companies will ALLOW FULL coverage for hearing aids. There are so many people with hearing loss these days especially the little ones. Often I hear a child cannot hear or talk because their family DOES NOT have any money to buy them hearing aids. This breaks my heart.

I WISH I had all the money in the world to give every child who has a hearing loss  the opportunity to hear.  Starkey Hearing Foundation  is a amazing organization.

Thanks Tammi who found this article and shared it on her blog.



Video:



Have a good day!

© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

  


Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Hearing Evaluation

Today I went into the city for my first hearing evaluation for my new processor.
My audiologist said I did extremely well with the implant. I heard all these low tones which
I never heard before. Then Jill put on a cd rom, I had to repeat back each sentence. This was pretty easy but this one man tone of voice was hard I started getting frustrated. His voice sounded muffled. The second time I had to repeat long sentences with background noise. I did okay with that. But, again that mans voice was so deep I had a hard time hearing what he was saying with the background noise.

I was also told to bring my hearing aid for my left ear today. Jill told me she wanted to test me with both the hearing aid and CI. This was my first time using my hearing aid with my implant. The sound was very overwhelming and also different. I had a hard time hearing my voice. I also had a hard time with sentences this time with both ears. It turns out that she wants me to use my left hearing aid because I havent worn a hearing aid in a few years in my left ear. Lastly, I was tested just for my left ear to see that ear is doing by itself. My hearing is still the same its severe- profound. For the next few days I have to wear my hearing aid for a while. I dont want to but she advised me to because my left ear hasn't had any hearing. She wants me to have surround sound.

In a few days I will be getting the report. I will be writing a post on that as well.

Time to time I have been thinking why was I born with a hearing loss. So today I asked my audiologist  if there is a test to see why I was born this way. She advised me to speak with my surgeon its called " Genetic testing". She did mention that a lot of parents who have deaf children do this. I have seen alot of parents do testing for their child. This would be nice to find out why. I am going to make an appointment with my suregon tomorrow.

The other night I saw this video after signing out of my mail. I was surprised to see a video like this on yahoo. Check this out A boy hears his mom for the first time.  This video made me so happy.

Technology is AWESOME!

Have a good night.. I will be back tomorrow.



© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Saturday, June 2, 2012

Hearing in the pool for the first time


A few days ago I spent the afternoon in the pool with my niece, my cousin and sisters. I wore my N5 processor. For the first time I heard the waterfall! I was able to communicate with ease. I was even able to hear everyone's conversation. On top of all the conversations I heard the music blasting. 

When I first stepped into the pool the sounds were overwhelming to me because this is something I never heard before. At first I thought it was a dream. Sometimes its weird to hear sounds I never heard before.  Honestly, I thought it was normal to not hear most of my life. I heard some sounds but nothing compared to what I hear now.  To tell you the truth I never thought I would be able to hear. 

This experience is so amazing to be able to hear. Hearing in the pool especially wiht my niece around is priceless. I know the N5 is " WATER RESISTANT" but I was afriad to go under water for a second. I really want to try this. Any suggestions? 

I know a lot of children from their blogs go into the pool with the N5 but I dont know what I would have to use since im an adult.  

Can you even hear sounds under water?
Have you went under water with your processor? If so what do you use to protect your processor?

I would really like to try this one time! Just to say I have experienced this. 



Thanks Cochlear!!!!!!!! For this amazing experience. 




© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog


Volunteering during May

On Friday May 25, 2012 I went to my local library to support Better Hearing & Speech Month. To let people know about Cochlear Implants. About fifteen showed up. Mostly parents who have deaf children. These parents are considering a CI for their child. One baby who is eighteen months old was born profoundly deaf. She does not benefit from hearing aids. The parents are learning American Sign Language as well.  I was so glad I was able to help them.

This was a good experience for me I do wish more people came but I did try fifteen people is more than enough on short notice.  I am glad everyone left happy.

For those of you that dont know where I live. I live on Long Island, NY. Long Island is huge. I am 30 minutes from New York City (NYC). Here on Long Island, I dont know anyone who has a cochlear implant. NOT even 1 person. I do know that there are a lot of people in NYC that have implants but I dont know them. My goal at this event was just to get the WORD out there that if you are deaf and cannot benefit from hearing aids anymore that there is another option out there for you!

My new goal for this summer is to find more YOUNG ADULTS on Long Island with CI's. I have looked numerous of times and for hours online. This is not so simple. I have to try harder to find people. I was also thinking of another idea, starting a website for young adults. This way people who are deaf in New York have a place to go. Maybe even do picnic events etc.

If you live in New York or If you know anyone in NY please have them contact me! Thanks so much.

Hope you are having a safe and wonderful summer so far!


© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Marvel Comics creates a hearing impaired super hero

You might want to check out this new hero who wears hearing aids. He inspires a young little boy to wear his in real life. Kudos to Marvel Comics to help this child overcome his fear of wearing a hearing aids.  Unfortunality, this comic book is not for sale for others just like him.  


CLICK HERE 





















Tomorrow, I am going to my public library to promote Better Hearing and Speech month. I will be giving out pamphlets and brochures about Cochlear Implant's for a few hours. I am looking forward to this.

Have a good night! :)




© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Monday, May 21, 2012

Difference between BAHA VS. Cochlear Implant's

A few people on Facebook mentioned they didn't know the difference between BAHA and Cochlear Implants. I didn't know either. Someone sent me these two links. These links explain what the difference is.

BAHA

Cochlear Implants

Hope this helps.

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Jennifer Rosner is an inspiration..


I had the pleasure meeting Jennifer Rosner when I lost all of my hearing. I didn't know much about Cochlear Implants prior to her book signing. Maybe three weeks.

This was so new to me three years ago. I decided to go to her presentation because I thought it would be helpful.  I had to think of other options. I knew "I HAD TO HEAR AGAIN".

At first I thought she was Deaf with Cochlear Implant's herself.  Then I realized she was hearing and both of her children are profoundly deaf and wears Cochlear Implant's. This day was a life changing experience for me. Something I still remember till this day. She gave me hope and she was so helpful she stayed after and answered all my questions. The sweetest person ever.

Today in the New York Times Jennifer wrote a wonderful post. I have to share this with you.
Check it out here.

If you never read her book. Click here. This is something you should definitely read. Dont forget to check out her website also.



Have a good night!



© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Saturday, May 5, 2012

MUSIC is amazing

Today, was the first time I heard about the Beastie Boys on TV.

My entire life I couldn't enjoy music because I couldn't hear. Even if the volume was blasting in the car on volume 100. That wouldn't matter. I still couldn't understand. Usually I would feel the vibration which was pretty neat.

Now that I have a Cochlear Implant, I am able to understand MUSIC. For the first time. Now music has a big impact on my life. I realized that songs have meanings. When I listen to these amazing bands, I can relate to the songs.

I have had my Ipod for a few years now but never really used it when I wore hearing aids.  Using my processor I can pick up on almost every song that is playing.  I hear the base and even guitar, and the exact words they are saying. If there is a new song, I would not be able to hear it right away. I have to replay it a couple of times till I understand. NOW I CANT live without music.

The audio cable which came with my Cochlear Implant kit is the best because it goes right into my processor and I can hear word for word. The best part about it no one can HEAR the music and complain it is really LOUD.

Today, I took a nice walk and realized the volume was about 10% which isn't loud at all. The volumen was comfortable for me.  If you can hear the song, there is no NEED TO RAISE the VOLUME louder unless you want to go DEAF!

Being able to communicate with ease is a LIFE SAVER. Being able to listen to MUSIC is the greatest. Over the last few months I realized music calms me down. Listening to MUSIC is something I have to do everyday.

Later on in the day, I decided to listen to Beastie Boys on youtube and was having trouble at first. Once I replayed the song a few times, I was able to comprehend most of what the band was singing.

If I ever have the chance to go to the UK and meet with Graeme Clark, I wouldn't know what to say  other than Thank You and  cry because he invented the best gift ever.


Sometimes I feel like this is all a dream.


Simply Amazing....



© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Cochlear has a new APP for Nucleus Receipts for the Iphone!

Finally! Cochlear has a new APP for Nucleus Recipients. If you have an Iphone, You can download this for FREE! I love it! I took pictures of what the APP looks like. Click Here to read the Article. Thanks to Rachel for telling us!



CLICK HERE    for the directions.


© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog








Friday, May 4, 2012

May is Better Hearing and Speech Month








May is Better Hearing & Speech Month. Please spread awareness about Cochlear Implants.


Did you know? 1 in 10 people in the U.S. suffer from hearing loss. Thats 38 million people in the U.S.

Experts project the number of people w/ hearing loss will rise to 1.1 billion by 2015. #ListenCarefully- Starkey Hearing Foundation. 

Here are some resources:


Treatments


Hearing Loss Education Center


Starkey Hearing Foundation

HLAA


If you think you might have a hearing loss contact your local Audiologist office. If you have any questions email me. I will do my best to try and help you.

Have a great day!



© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

Mapping #3

Today I had another mapping done.The last few weeks have been a struggle because I havent gone for a mapping in 2 months. I realized the programs have changed. My audiologist said that the programs have changed on the computer. That is why you are suppose to go every three weeks to get programed.  I do like my new programs. There are 4 programs using the Nucleus 5.

Program 1: New program which is louder.
Program 2: Even louder if I need it.
Program 3: Zoom (which I never used before).
Program 4: Old program if I dont like the new programs.

Every mapping appointment is basically the same. Here is what happened today.

- Listening to beeps: She takes my processor and plugs it onto the computer. Then I put it back on my ear. I have to listen to series of beeps and tell her how many beeps do I hear from 1-5. This is done for about 10 minutes. I did really well. Even the lowest beeps I heard.

- Then she turned on my processor and adjusted the programs. To the level I was comfortable at.

- I was asked to repeat words such as: OOO, EEE, AHHH, MMM, SSS, SHH. I heard it all.

On June 6th, I have to go back into the city. My audiologist will put me in the booth for a hearing evaluation to see where I am at. She also told me to bring my left hearing aid for my left ear. She wants to check that ear as well. I was also told to not wear my hearing aid just yet in the left ear, because I still have to give my brain more time to listen with the processor.

Remember with my first implant the disposable batteries lasted 2-3 weeks? Well she said to me that is not NORMAL. They are suppose to last anywhere between 2-3 DAYS* tops. She showed me on the computer that with the old program I was using, the disposables last 36 hours.

I am wondering how my evaluation will go in the sound booth. I havent done that since August of last year. She did ask me questions hows the new CI? Is is better than the first implant. Without a doubt there is and I wouldn't change it for anything in this world. To communicate with ease is the greatest gift ever. I am glad I went forward with Re implantation and didn't back out.

By the Way I definitely want to try to go to Cochlear Celebration! This sounds amazing being around so many people who wear the same implant as me!!! Is anyone going??


Have a great day!


© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Minor leaguer hears with Cochlear Implants

Jalen Harris was born Deaf. He now plays for the Brewers minor league team wearing his cochlear implants. What an inspiring story.

Click Here to read the article.

Next weeks mapping is all set. I will be picked up so I dont have to take the train. So much easier for me.

Today I heard Birds chirping away like crazy while my niece and I were outside taking a nice walk. Then an airplane ( they are really loud) and trucks and cars going by all at once. So amazing to be able to hear so many sounds at once. My niece is learning that I wear a " boo boo" on my ear in order to HEAR her. Today for the first time she said " Aunt D do you hear the birds."

My windows have been shut for the last few days because it is so chilly out there. I heard a car outside, and the BIRDS chirping and of course my niece favorite the Ice Cream man. All with the windows shut. So amazing.

It would be nice if the Sound & Way beyond cd rom was mac compatible so I can practice. I hope in the future it will be because there are way to many people with Macs who are missing out on this opportunity.


Have a good night.


© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Monday, April 23, 2012

Opening Day at New York Yankee Stadium

On April 13, 2012, I went to opening day at the New York Yankee Stadium for the first time. I had the best time. The stadium was packed and so loud but I was able to communicate really well. I heard everything! I even understood people while I was ordering food. What a great experience.

I also noticed that the stadium has captioning on both sides of the stadium for the Deaf and hard of hearing. Totally forgot about that. I know they had this for the old stadium as well.








I cant wait to go back to the stadium when things get settled.



© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Saturday, April 21, 2012

Battery Modules

Hi. Hope everyone is doing well. I am running out of Disposables batteries and will start using the Standard and Compact Rechargeable Batteries. I was searching for a case to hold both of the batteries and I havent had any luck. My mother found these pills cases at CVS. It comes with two cases for $2.00. The batteries fit perfectly. Click Here.





















I am due for a mapping badly. I cant get into the city right now because of my health issues. Hoping to go in a couple of weeks.  I also have been hearing new sounds. I wear my implant everyday still it is just that this illness is taking over my life at the moment. I havent been paying attention to new sounds because of this. The newest sound I have heard was a car coming from around the corner, footsteps, I also heard bugs at night for the first time. Pretty cool. I am so happy with my processor. I am hearing amazing that hearing comes naturally. There are times when I do miss things but its rare. i put the processor on and I can hear mostly everything. Although I have to practice on the phone with this. This is really all thats going on. Just focusing on walking again since I been wheelchair bound.


Hope you have a great day!

© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

I'm Back

I havent been on here for a while now. I been so busy with my illness and going to never ending Dr' appointments. I had to cancel my mapping this month because I havent been able to walk for 1 month.  Ending up getting a wheelchair etc.

Anyways thats whats been going on. I am hearing great one good thing that is happening. I am still on my current program. A week ago I went with my best friend to the movies and I heard almost everything during the movie. SO COOL! I noticed the theater was so LOUD. I had to lower my volume. Having a CI has changed my life. Seriously the best thing that I ever did because being able to " HEAR" takes a load off my illness. You have no idea. My hearing loss affected my life everyday. Just remember when the Implant is off I cant hear.  I cannot hear 100% and  miss things here and there but not always. Day by Day I am improving... I JUST LOVE IT.

Summer is soon and the one thing I am definitely doing is going to the beach to listen to the ocean for the first time. I never went with my first processor.

I have noticed that I am changing the disposables every few days instead of every 2 weeks. Big difference. just realized I only have one box of batteries left. Maybe because I was re implanted and because its a different implant (Freedom), and program. But, I am still using my N5 processor.


I hope everyone is doing good.




© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Monday, March 12, 2012

SKIN IT...

Today I received my first SKIN IT for my N5 processor. It looks awesome. I cannot wait to go to opening day wearing this. SKIN It is available for any processor. Below you click on what processor you have and it will go right to the website. I will definitely be getting more!!! Putting the sticker on the processor was pretty simple. The first thing you want to do is wipe your processor with a cloth both sides. Then just peel the sticker off the paper and put it onto the processor. This takes less than a few seconds to do. 



I cant find anything for Med El. Sorry.




Also today I received an email there is an APP for the IPHONE now for Parent IEP checklist click here to download it.


Have a good week...



© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Monday, March 5, 2012

Petition: To get MLB Network to Caption their shows


Two days ago I was so excited to watch the first  yankee spring training game. The game was on MLB network.  I am a disappointed because MLB network doesn't provide closed captioning for the deaf. They are discriminating against the Deaf and hard of hearing. This is not fair because I couldn't even enjoy watching the game. What is the point of watching the game when I dont understand what is being said?  Everyone should be able to enjoy watching sports equally. There is no excuse.

I called MLB because I was so frustrated. Finally after 40 minutes someone picks up. The person said they filed the complaint and that she couldn't help, to "CALL MY CABLE PROVIDER". for the concerns. Meanwhile the commercials HAD CAPTIONS!!!! I knew it wasn't my TV or cable box because every other channel that I switched to had CAPTIONS! Theres no excuse.

So I decided to start a petition to get MLB to caption there network. I am asking you to take two seconds to please sign this for me.  I am aiming for over 1,000 signatures. Please send to family and friends. Your help is greatly appreciated.

FCC law stating that all stations MUST be Accessible for Americans with Disabilities.


CLICK HERE TO SIGN THE PETITION



THANKS SO MUCH!!!!!


© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

mapping #2



Today I went into the city for my second mapping. What a day!!! They wouldn't take me because of insurance issues meanwhile everything is fine. JUST A NIGHTMARE. Finally at 11:20 they took me after I said JUST BILL ME!

My audiologist put my processor (N5) onto the computer to check to see if it is working
 ( standard procedure). Then series of beeps came on and I had to raise my hand and determine how many beeps that I heard 1-5. I did pretty good. After the series of beeps she made it louder and adjusted the map so I can hear at a comfortable level. I hear so much better since the mapp since changed. The processor is louder and I can communicate well. I heard her voice fine. No more mickey mouse.

I did explain to my audiologist that I can understand Adele's song on my ipod but not Lifehouse my favorite band that I been listening to for year.She told me because with Adele you just hear her voice ,but with Lifehouse you hear other people singing and the drums etc. So that will take time of course. She also suggested me to practice. I cant use the Sound & way Beyond because its not compatible with my mac so she suggested to try books on tapes instead. I will use my Nook for that. Finally the program I am on is comfortable if I need to lower it I will. I have four programs each week I have to try each program.

I am still having trouble communicating with family and friends so it will take time. Nothing is perfect. I am happy with my mapp. I have to go back in a month.

My audiologist also ask if I want to hear more background noise when I listen to music or less background noise?  I prefer less background noise so she said she adjusted that in the map as well which is pretty neat. I didn't know that was an option.

Below this Article is a MUST READ!!!!

LOS ANGELES TIMES 

My Turn: Hearing-impaired people need friends and some patience

They hover between the hearing and deaf world but fear feeling like outsiders. January 09, 2012|By Terri Goldstein, Special to the Los Angeles Times




Imagine yourself in a country where nobody speaks your language. It becomes a necessity to rely on your other senses and hone your powers of observation. You welcome the times when you can "fill in the blanks" and get the gist of a conversation. Each situation is stressful: Will you be a participant or an observer?
This is the life of a hearing-impaired person.
We are not deaf, and, therefore, most of us do not read lips, sign or wear hearing devices 100% of the time. We try to preserve whatever hearing we have left. We walk softly on the fine line between the hearing and deaf communities.
Even our friends are selected carefully. We cultivate friendships based on who is sensitive to our needs. They are the people who are willing to speak a little louder and more distinctly. They are the people who are willing to repeat themselves if they see from your expression that you didn't hear all that was said. They don't wait for you to apologize or "phase out" of a difficult-to-hear conversation. They make sure that you never feel ashamed because of your disability.
Each day is a series of plans — how to seat yourself and others so that you have the best hearing advantage, where to go for business meetings and social events to avoid loud, busy places, etc. However, sometimes it is difficult to control the situation.
Envision going to the theater or movies only to find the audience laughing with delight when you have no idea why. Maybe you smile or chuckle to camouflage your discomfort, hoping that this will not recur throughout the movie. These facilities usually offer headsets, which enable you to amplify the volume. Unfortunately, many are not well maintained and cause a static-like sound. It is always a pleasure — and a surprise — when we can enjoy a movie without struggling.
We sometimes avoid talking on the phone, knowing that we may need you to repeat yourself several times. You can understand why some of us choose to communicate by email or text!
We arrive at speaker functions and seminars at least 30 minutes early, so that we can get a much needed front-row seat.
Even in the health club, we wear our hearing aids to help follow the class routines. We certainly don't want to be caught doing push-ups when the rest of the group is doing sit-ups.
In spite of our disability, many of us continue to be social and take part in group activities. There is always the fear of asking a question that has already been asked and answered. We understand that you may find it funny, but please know that it is mortifying to us.
On occasion, we may try to monopolize the conversation in order to control what is being said. Even with all the accommodations we give ourselves, all too often we mix up or miss words. We go home feeling embarrassed and wonder why we subject ourselves to group functions. 
By Terri Goldstein, Special to the Los Angeles Times


Have a great day!!



© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Friday, February 24, 2012

Early Intervention :The Missing Link



Great video.  This video is voice, captioned and signed.








© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Post Activation.... 11 days

It has been 11 days since Activation.  This week has been a stressful one because my uncle has passed. Finally Today I started to practice my hearing. My friends are telling me I talk " too low" and I am "mumbling." I cant hear myself talk so that is probably why. The mapp is definitely way to low for me. This process is different this time around... It is not the same. I have to learn how to hear all over again. The last few days I have been frustrated because I am not grasping what is being said. I hear better with my good ear the unaided left ear and that is messing everything up for me.

Yesterday I went for a walk because it was 60 degrees. I listened to music by using the audio cable. The audio cable goes directly into my processor and the other end goes into my ipod. I was able to understand Adele's song but I wasn't able to understand The Fray or Staind which are songs I have heard before. Adele's song is fairly new on my ipod. So I am a bit confused why I couldn't understand their songs. The sound was mumbly.  I feel like I am missing out a lot. I have only been activated for 11 days. I know I have to be patience and have a long way to go.

I want to use the Sound & Way beyond to practice but I cant because its not MAC compatible.  :( So I printed out phonetic words to practice.  Someone in the house will repeat the words back to me.


On Tuesday Feb 28th I am going back into the city for a mapping.



© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

A Letter for my God Father....

On Saturday February 18th, 2012 you went to heaven. I still cant believe this happened especially on the 18th, because thats the same date as my birthday even though its a different month. You are an amazing God father and I will never forget you. You always made me laugh. You will always be in my heart and I will cherish every moment we spent together. The last few days have been the hardest for me. I remember you used to bake amazing pies for me apple and pumpkin. You always loved to cook and bake. I remember you liked watching Martha Stewart. Always had cook books out.  I enjoyed watching baseball with you either the yankee or the met games. You have taught me a lot about baseball. I also remember the time we spoke about me going to Ireland. I will definitely be going there for you. Every time I close my eyes I see you on the porch holding your newspaper. Remember before I got sick I always took a walk to your house and we used to just sit on your porch and chat. I can still see you waving to me as Im coming down your block. I will always cherish those moments with you. This is NOT going to be the same without you here. I hope your okay. I am terribly sorry I didn't get to come up to the hospital to see you because of your infection. I hope you forgive me.

I will love you always I promise. By the way I heard that you loved the Irish flowers I got you :) I am going to try to find them so I can plant them in my yard for you.

I love you.....

An Irish Blessing
May the road rise to meet you, 
May the wind be always at your back, 

May the sun shine warm upon your face, 
May the rains fall soft upon your fields, 
And, until we meet again, 
May God hold you in the hollow of His hand.






© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog

Monday, February 13, 2012

Re- Implantation Activation...



Today I went into the city for Activation. First I saw my surgeon, he removed a stich that was sticking out. Then I went in for Activation. I was very overwhelmed. My audiologist tested my implant before it was going to be turned on. When I was switched on It was really low. I had to raise my hand when I heard a beep. She then made it louder and I started to hear noises but this time it was different. :( I hear mickey mouse sounds. More like a puppet. This is so hard to explain because I never experienced anything like this with my first implant. I started getting nervous but I knew that this implant is totally different. My audiologist said a few words back to me and I heard most of them. I am just freaking out over the different voice. I cant really hear much. I feel like Im straining to hear.

When I got home I was exhausted that I just passed out for an hour. Then I practiced my hearing. I am having trouble understanding words and basically everything. The program is on really low. While I was practicing I used my remote to change the processor to program 2. This seemed a little louder but this still seems to low for me. I have to stay on each program for a few days each.

Here are some of the words I am having trouble with.
Cup     Run
Shoe    Van
Pea      Bail
Fill     Very
Feel    bent
Mat     Po
Bat     Bug
Rat     Ten

I can barely hear, I am stressing out. I have a lot of practicing to do. Like I said I feel like Im straining and I'm lipreading more. Yes, I know I have to be patient. This just seems so different than the first time around. It is only day one. I will not be using my hearing aid anymore in my Left ear. Now I have to learn to hear all over again with the implant. Back to the beginning.


Here is a short video. I tried to caption it the best I can...




I will be back during the week.  I have to go to bed im exhausted.






© 2012 My personal Hearing Loss blog