Chuck, Adult Cochlear Implant Patient Testimonial
Chuck is a long-term research participant in a study investigating the impact of individualized map settings on performance with an electric-acoustic stimulation device.
Below is his story in his own words:
Being able to receive a cochlear implant has been an amazing gift that I was so blessed to receive. I had gotten to the point where I was almost deaf in my right ear. My cochlear implant has been a medical miracle that has impacted my life in such a positive way. I can now hear and understand my grandchildren, Clara and Charlie, which is an incredible blessing, and I can also enjoy music and conversations with friends, family, and people I encounter every day!
When I was asked to participate in a research program, saying “yes” was one of the easiest decisions of my life. Helping with research is a way of giving back for the wonderful blessing of hearing that has been made possible through my cochlear implant, and I hope that my participation in research programs will help others to be able to enjoy the gift of hearing. My father was a research scientist in genetics for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), so I have a strong appreciation for the value of scientific research in improving our world and an understanding of the need for volunteers to participate in research programs.
From a self-serving standpoint, being a research participant has given me access to a team of expert professionals who have helped my cochlear implant work to its maximum performance. Any question or issue I have with my cochlear implant has been immediately answered and addressed. I have benefited immensely from being a part of research studies. Words are inadequate to express how thankful I am for my cochlear implant, the blessing of hearing, and for the tremendous help I have received from the research experts.
I hope and pray that my participation in cochlear implant research will benefit other individuals and enable many people to be able to have hearing who might not have been able to hear if not for the outstanding research being conducted through these programs.