This is when Sean's new ears will be "turned on!" He will receive his external processors that will allow for him to "learn to hear." Sean's implants will be "mapped," or programmed so that he can take in sound without pain and other discomfort. Our CI audiologist, Mike, will connect the implant to a computer and test the implanted electrodes as part of the initial mapping process, adjusting the electrode frequencies as needed. The comfort sound level is important because at first, for some implantees things may sound "too loud."
Hearing aids and Cochlear Implants are NOT at all like glasses. You don't get them, put them on, and hear! Once Sean's processors are activated, he will be like a "newborn" as far as hearing goes. He will have to "learn to listen" and localize sounds. What sounds he did hear months ago with hearing aids, will be totally different with CI's. For example, hearing my voice will be new and different!
We are anxious and excited about what lies ahead. We know that for CI's to be successful it takes A LOT of work from the family and therapists.
Many of you have seen the YouTube videos of a child hearing for the first time with CI's. Parents of young children are warned not to expect too much from the first mapping. As the brain needs to get used to processing all of the new sounds. Don't worry, there will be videos of Sean to come this time next week!!!
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| "Cochlear Koala" had his CI's under that head wrap! |
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| Sean interested in trying out Cochlear Koala's processor! |
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