Today we went to Southampton for Alexander’s three month tuning session.
It was just over 3½ months ago that Alexander had his cochlear implant turned on and we have been to Southampton on a number of occasions since then. Each time they have checked the processor and implant and then run some hearing tests where they hook his processor up to a laptop and use the computer to generate tones. We cannot hear these tones (although the computer does beep when they are being played to let us know) so it has always been very difficult for us to understand the sort of volumes that Alexander can hear and react to.
Today the audiologists at Southampton used a different technique. They decided to play the tones through a set of speakers into the room where we were all sitting and playing with Alexander. With only his processor on (they took off his hearing aid from his right ear), tones of varying frequencies and volumes were piped into the room. Alexander was encouraged to turn when he heard the tones by a set of toys that lit up and animated when he looked towards them.
Alison and I were stunned when we saw Alexander turning when hearing relatively quiet tones while he was playing with some toys, which were making other noises at the same time.
This was the first time we had really witnessed the range of hearing that he is actually getting from the implant – and it was such a joy to see. I must admit that it did bring a tear to my eye.
The audiologists were really pleased with him. They told us that he is doing really well and that the tuning is now pretty well established. They consider the implant to be a success.
This has really encouraged us to keep plugging away with the techniques and tools that we are being taught by the Speech and Language Therapists and Teachers of the Deaf. I think we both really feel that Alexander has a great chance of developing his speech now.
We had a good discussion with the audiologists about Alexander and they were very reassuring and encouraging today. We also asked them to start the wheels moving on looking at getting the second ear implanted – this is a decision we will have to make quite soon, but we need to ensure that we can get funding etc. first of all.
So, all in all, a good day and one that has left us feeling much better about what we have put Alexander through over the last year.
Thanks james – we had a great time.
It goes without saying that we are all so pleased for Alexander and both of you too, and it was great to see you letting your hair down a bit the other night. JGRJxxxx
A fantastic way to start the New Year – so happy for you guys.
Lots of love & raspberry kisses xxx
Hi all of you.
Just read the news, this is great.
Phoned your Aunty Edna and she is over the moon, as are we all.
This has put a smile on her face. She said she would be typing this message herself, that is if she was not the other member of the family to have a broken bone.
All of the Browns send their love. xxx
Great news about Alexander/, can’t imagine how you must have felt, long way to go yet but Onward and upwards now.
love to all
Aunt Joy and Jim
Brilliant news!!!! Can’t wait to get chatting to him. Ali xx
I must point out that it will still be a long hard slog to get him talking. We are getting help for this but at least we know the implant is working well – it is now really down to how Alexander is processing these sounds.
The audiologists said that they wouldn’t really expect any words for about a year after switch-on. We are just 3 months into this year so it may be a while before we hear him.
Fantastic news guys. That’s lovely to hear. I’m so glad after all you guys have been through, you’re starting to really see results.
xx
Fantastic news. So good to know that the operation has been a success. Can’t wait to hear his little voice when it comes.
great news guys, so glad to see things going great guns.
Thanks for reading and wrirtitng the comment – we will have to meet up soon!!