I just finished with the AG Bell convention. I attended an excellent session on self-directed aural rehab, talked to friends about their experiences, and got to meet the Advanced Bionics folks. The one question everyone asked me is, "How's the CI?" My answer was, "It's only been two months!" I usually added that I haven't been hearing anything new. This week, however, I noticed when using my Sidekick one morning that I could hear the physical clicks from the buttons. Another morning, I had to ask Aaron what noise I was hearing, only to find it was the toaster timer winding down. We've had this toaster a long time and I never commented on it before.
It was encouraging to discover that for many people it seems to take at least six months to a year before they truly benefit from the implant. Everyone has an "Aha!" moment when they realize it's working for them. I haven't had mine yet...
I've been wearing a HA in my non-implanted ear so I'm more balanced and get the full benefit of sound. Some people caution against doing this, however. If I don't wear my HA, I can supposedly train my implanted ear better. I've heard, though, that it can be a tough adjustment once the HA is reintroduced. I might try a compromise and go for a period of time each day without the HA.
At my last mapping appointment, P3 was the loudest program and a bit too loud to use. Two days later, I was using it, and this past week, it's been too soft. At today's appointment, we punched up some of the frequencies and increased the volume. With the new P1, I tested a mild hearing loss across the board. Sharon was pleased, as I'm finally getting closer to where she wants me to be. She described the results as being "good" and "acceptable." P2 and P3 have small changes; if I can, I'll go back and forth with all three. When doing exercises with her, I was able to hear the sounds in the words more.
My friend Dave said he did daily aural rehab with his partner the first three months after his surgery. He puts me to shame! Hopefully after July 4th, things will settle down around here and I can put Aaron to work!
It’s exciting to hear about you progress. I know it must seem slow to you, but think of all the retraining your brain is having to do in such a short time! Hang in here! Suzy () - 30 06 06 - 13:50
Great…. I am so pleased that you are finally beginning to understand speech. I knew you would within time. It will get better and better as the time goes by. I remember hearing the ocean waves in Puerto Vallarta… I was amazed at that sound, so amazed that I tried to fall asleep with my implant on… but only to find it was keeping me awake. Ha, ha… guess I am too used to silence when going to sleep. I love reading your experiences. Penny () - 08 08 06 - 13:45