My Baha has changed my life in ways that I find amazing.  In September, 2008 my processor was activated and I could hear again, in situations that had been very difficult.  Over the last two years, I have occasionally assisted my surgeon and Cochlear as a volunteer.  Most recently, I am reinventing myself in a new career, as a Cochlear employee and am the new Baha Awareness Manager.

Here's my story:

As an eleven year old, I was left with damage to my middle ear after successful surgery to remove a Cholesteatoma.  Two subsequent reconstructive surgery's failed to restore right-side hearing and I was left with severe hearing loss for over thirty-five years.  I learned to adjust and live with my loss.  My life seemed to be as normal as anyone else.

In 2008, during my annual ENT check-up, I was told about Baha and recommended to Dr. Marc Eisen at Hartford (Connecticut) Hospital.  I was told that I was a perfect candidate for Baha, but being wary of surgery, I was hesitant. 

One of the great benefits of the Baha, is it can be tested on a patient, before surgery.  When my surgeon tested the Baha on me, I was stunned by the results.  While I was speechless, my wife was able to tell Dr. Eisen to schedule the surgery.  My implant was in place ten days later.

My wife and three children, almost immediately noticed a difference in my ability and willingness to interact during our always lively dinners together, in the car while the radio is blaring, kids are singing and dog is barking, or many other situations where I used to have difficulty distinguishing speech.

I'm a lucky man.  I've been married to my best friend for over twenty-five years.  Together we're raising three great kids.  I am active in our community and today, I have the privilege of working for Cochlear and being in the forefront in helping others with my type of hearing loss achieve their goal of hearing again.