A Life-Changing Journey with a Cochlear Implant
Cochlear implants are sophisticated medical devices designed to provide a sense of sound to individuals with severe to profound hearing loss. They can be life-changing for those whose hearing can no longer be adequately improved with hearing aids, either due to the severity of their loss or the reduction in sound quality.
At Victorian Hearing, audiologist Gyneth Fernando has supported many patients through their cochlear implant journeys, including Irene, who received her implant in May 2024. Irene’s story offers a powerful insight into the transformative impact of cochlear implants and the journey from hearing loss to restored sound.
Irene’s Story
My hearing loss journey began in 2012 while I was working as a nurse in Nagambie. I started to notice my hearing was diminishing and became increasingly concerned about how it might impact my ability to perform my duties. Wanting to continue in my role without compromise, I took action and received my first hearing aids in 2014. These aids served me well for several years, but I found myself needing to update them every couple of years to keep up with my changing hearing needs.
In September 2023, everything changed. I experienced a medical episode that led to my hospitalisation at Jessie McPherson Hospital for several days. During this time, my hearing challenges became more apparent and deeply affected my emotional well-being. I freely admit to becoming quite depressed as I struggled to engage with those around me.
After a series of MRIs and specialist consultations, I was diagnosed with Meniere’s disease—a condition that can lead to progressive hearing loss. It was during these discussions that the possibility of a cochlear implant was raised. While the journey ahead involved extensive testing and assessments, I was eager to explore any option that could improve my quality of life.
The testing process was, at times, stressful, but eventually, I was referred to Dr. Hurtado to discuss a cochlear implant. After careful consideration, he recommended placing the implant in my left ear, as it had the least remaining hearing. In May 2024, I underwent surgery at Epworth Richmond Hospital.
The surgery itself went smoothly, and I only needed to stay overnight. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the procedure wasn’t particularly painful. However, the most challenging part was adjusting to life with just my right hearing aid while waiting for the implant to be activated. Those few weeks felt long, but I was filled with anticipation for what was to come.
Approximately three weeks after the surgery, the day I had been waiting for finally arrived—switch-on day. I was both excited and nervous as I met with my audiologist, Gyneth Fernando, at Victorian Hearing. With her support, the implant was activated, and to my delight, I could hear sounds immediately. Although the sounds were not yet clear words, I knew this was just the beginning.
One of the first sounds I recognised was the clicking of my car’s blinkers during the drive home with my daughter. It may seem small, but I hadn’t heard that sound in years, and it felt like a significant milestone.
In the days following switch-on, it took time to train my brain to recognise words clearly through the implant. With persistence and the support of my care team, my ability to understand speech gradually improved. Today, the combination of my cochlear implant and my hearing aid works together seamlessly. I am back to enjoying my active lifestyle, playing golf, and socialising with friends. Being able to communicate effortlessly again has been life-changing.
While I hope not to need a second implant, I know I would pursue it without hesitation if my hearing aid is no longer sufficient.
I feel incredibly fortunate to have had such dedicated professionals by my side throughout this journey. I am especially grateful to Dr. Hurtado, Patrick from Australian Hearing, and, of course, Gyneth at Victorian Hearing, who continues to provide exceptional care and support. I feel truly blessed.
Cochlear Implants with Victorian Hearing
If you would like to learn more about cochlear implants, reach out to the team at Victorian Hearing, your local, independent, and Australian owned and operated audiology practice.
We run free Discovery Hearing Implant discussions where you can learn more about these hearing devices and hear from a cochlear implant recipient yourself. Family and friends are welcome. See our website for the next session Cochlear Implants in Clayton, VIC by Victorian Hearing.
With ten clinics across Melbourne, you are sure to find a friendly smile and support from the Victorian Hearing team. Call (03) 9558 8842 or book online.