25. Day 4: Thinking ahead ~ 20th June

This morning we were given an interesting talk about cochlear implants. 'Surgery Encyclopedia' says "A cochlear implant is a small, complex electronic device used to treat severe to profound hearing loss. It is surgically implanted underneath the skin behind the patient's ear" (quoted from 'encyclopedia of surgery'). I am not going into any detail about cochlear implants because they are such an incredible and complex invention that they warrant their own entry on my blog.

It was then time to say goodbye. It was really difficult to leave the course. Whilst saying goodbye to my fellow students was sad, leaving the actual course was the worst. Leaving the things which I had never imagined I would experience. I went on the course for four reasons: 

1. learn more about being deaf, 
2. meet other deaf people, 
3. get some support for my family, 
4. use the hotels swimming pool. 

Other than that, I wasn't expecting a thing.

What did I gain from the course? Not only was the course content educational, it was supportive for my family, it provided me with a wealth of information, I received support from experienced staff, I gained courage, strength and I'm emotionally stronger than I was before. I am grateful for what I've got compared to those less able to use technology for example the much older students on the course. I was made to feel normal, spending time away to reflect, knowing that there are things available to help me lead the best quality of life I'm able to. I was given hope, allowed to talk openly, we shared experiences, gained tips from each other and I never felt alone. I have been given so many suggestions of things to look up when I'm home. I have learnt things in preparation for my future but being realistic at the same time, knowing that there are challenges ahead but also knowing that I'm normal and that I'm still the same person I was before going deaf.

Thank you NHS for funding the course and thank you Hearing Link for an amazing few days!

16. A problem shared is a problem halved ~ 29th May

I was meant to be seeing a wonderful person today whom I am very lucky to have as a close friend. I have unexpectedly been taken in to hospital which sadly means I have had to cancel my day in London with her today.

Miranda and I met in the strangest of situations - we were both inpatients in a hospital and both extremely unwell . From the moment I met her it was as though we had been friends for life. When we do get the chance to see each other there are two things that she and I are very talented at; talking non stop and giggling! Unfortunately I don't get to see her very often, mostly thanks to her huge social diary (as everyone wants to see Miranda!) and also the little thing called studying/work! She has a heart of gold and voluntarily gives up a lot of her free time to assist Ruby Wax, particularly in her work to raise awareness and battle the stigma of mental health. We've supported each other through some difficult times and Miranda has been a huge support to me with my hearing.

Since losing my hearing, she hasn't treated me any differently. She sent me links of websites she knew I would find useful, she helped answer some of technical questions about creating a blog and she also helped promote my blog on her social networking sites when I started it. There was never any awkwardness between us as I had feared.

Miranda also writes a blog. Have a look at her blog (but remember to return to mine afterwards!) http://www.mirandabunting.com

Finally my advice to you? Everyone needs a friend called Miranda.

*Update* she has just finished university and she has passed her degree in nutrition and has achieved fantastic grades. I'm so proud of her.