The cochlear implant has been controversial since the beginning. Many deaf people are actively against the cochlear implant because some feel it threatens the deaf culture and the use of sign language. I imagine fear is a contributing factor for parts of the controversy, but as a hearing person I know I will never fully know or understand each side of the issue.
I do know that fear of the unknown can be debilitating, and it can consume energy better spent elsewhere. I guess that's why I cherish people who tell their personal stories. Reading those stories helps reduce the fear because it shines a light into the darkness of the unknown and it makes stepping into the unknown a little bit easier.
Lensmaster Spook shines a light on the cochlear implant as he tells his story in The Cochlear Implant A Medical Miracle. He tells about his own personal experience with the cochlear implant. He is honest about the device's ability. He tells about how it's different than one my expect or hope, but for him it was the right decision.
Lensmaster Spook tells about one particular incident that sent shivers up my spine. It was about hearing his son call out to him once his back was turned enabling him to face his son to see what he wanted instead of not hearing him and going about his business. That was a major turning point in his relationship with his son because, as Spook said, "From that moment we were mates. Consequently, I'm forever grateful for the Implant. There he was always seeing his dad walk past him." The implant enabled Spook to be a better father because he could be more attentive to his son's needs, and his son didn't have to feel like his dad was just walking past him anymore.
Lensmaster Spook doesn't hold the only opinion of the cochlear implant. It is the best choice for him and his family. It is something that improves his quality of life. Everyone has to make their own decisions in life, but for anyone considering the cochlear implant or anyone who knows someone who is, I'd recommend The Cochlear Implant A Medical Miracle.
Visit: The Cochlear Implant A Medical Miracle
Image Credit: Cochlear Implant Awareness Keychain by tessajo76
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ReplyDeleteWonderful review and Spook's lens gives so much good information on the cochlear implant.
ReplyDeleteGreat review, Crystal. I love reading Spook's first-person stories, and his Cochlear Implant is no exception. :)
ReplyDeleteI'm humbled by all you people. No really. I haven't got the words to thank you properly, but once again you've all made my day.
ReplyDeleteRegards,
Spook.
.-= Spook´s last blog ..Ko Phi Phi island in Southern Thailand =-.
An incredible story, thank you for featuring it here and sharing it with us. Spook is quite remarkable and his story will be of great interest to many people in similar circumstances, as well as being a compelling read to the rest of us.
ReplyDeleteAs I said on Spook's lens, this is required reading! Thank you so much for pointing out his cochlear implant lens. It is so true that personal stories are the best way to learn, although we can never know what it would be like to be in his place.
ReplyDelete