I got my first cochlear implant when I was 16 months and the second one when I was 8 years old and in second grade. I am so, so, so glad that I got the second one because it is just so much louder and it makes it easier to hear! Don’t stress out when your child gets cochlear implants because they are amazing and I wouldn’t trade anything in the world for them. If you are a parent and can decide whether to get your child cochlear implants, I say absolutely yes!! They are totally worth it !!!! ~Alyna, age 14.

David is a remarkable 23 year-old young man.

Your journey will not be a smooth ride. You will encounter moments of, “Why did I get a cochlear implant if I can’t understand everything.” My advice to you would be, just keep going and you’ll gain confidence. Keep working at “storing” sounds and voices so you’ll be able to understand more things as you move along in your journey. Don’t be afraid to reach out to fellow cochlear implant wearers because they will be more than happy to guide you throughout any obstacles or struggles you’re currently going through.  ~Emily, age 19

“I wouldn’t be me without [cochlear implants]. I have certainly had an emotional journey, but I am grateful to have been able to live without many accommodations. I have been able to succeed both in and out of school. I learned that being deaf is what makes me wonderfully unique. I love to laugh and enjoy life. I have always used hearing and speech to communicate, but over the last few years I have taken classes in ASL and now use that to make deaf/hh friends. Now I am part of two cultures: hearing and deaf.” ~Chloe, age 18

The cochlear implant has transformed our lives…..the world is Ian’s oyster. Ian is able to enjoy all of life’s opportunities through the gift of sound. Such a blessing! ~Gloria, mother of Ian

Words of advice for kids or their parents as they begin their journey into the world of cochlear implants . . . Encourage your kids to believe in their dreams and never let anything stop them of who they are. Entering the world can be hard but at the end, you will be changing people’s lives around since you are unique from others. Plus, always smile and have a positive attitude.
-Kyle, age 18

“She had the world opened up to her in a way that would not have been possible. Even with Mondini (malformation), she has excelled and her love of communication propels her forward. She is extremely social and wants to  know everything that is happening around her. Watching her grow and acquire language has been one of the most amazing miracles. Cued Speech was the key for her in the academic setting. She went from being a struggling student to “A” Honor Roll. We also use Cued Speech in the home when spoken language is not clear enough. ~ Marie, mother of Mercy Anne

“CASTLE is a place where miracles happened to my child. Through the expertise and support of the CASTLE staff, Parker is able to learn the words to his favorite rock songs, tell us about his adventures at school and is able to express his ideas and experiences.” – Holly, Parker’s mom

Cochlear Implants have given Hannah many more opportunities than she would have had without them.  She is able to enjoy family and friends by being able to communicate through spoken language. ~Lisa, mother of Hannah

“When I found out my daughter was deaf, I was devastated. My heart was broken thinking she would never hear me say the words ‘I love you.’ With the help and training from the amazing staff, not only does Brianna hear those three words, but so do I.”
– Stephanie, Brianna’s mom