Parents have incredible and unique connections with their children.
They communicate in a variety of ways, through touch, talk, and sight. This communication nourishes a baby’s development and teaches them how to communicate with the rest of the world.
That’s why Jami and Eric were unsure what to do when they found out that their baby, Nathan, experienced significant hearing loss at only two months old. Being hearing themselves, they wanted their child to hear as well.
The parents decided to invest in technology that could help their baby hear again.
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Jami and Eric gave Nathan his hearing back by way of a Cochlear Implant, an electronic hearing system with two main components: an implanted receiver, and an external microphone. The device activates the auditory nerve to simulate hearing.
They were able to get an implant that’s designed specifically to fit better for infants.
The video shows Jami and Eric speaking to Nathan and his reaction when he hears their voices is priceless. You better grab some tissues before you watch it!
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While Cochlear Implants are not the same as experiencing sound for people who have not had profound hearing loss, it can be life-changing for anyone who chooses to get one.
Many deaf people opt not to have Cochlear Implants for a variety of personal reasons, including being active within the Deaf community and believing that hearing is not a necessary part of enjoying life.
Further, surgery to get an implant can be costly and like all medical procedures, does pose some risks.
Choosing to get an implant or choosing not to get one are both valid choices. Given that Nathan will still have to deal with his hearing loss for the rest of his life, he may still benefit from learning American Sign Language and connecting with other hard-of-hearing and deaf people as he grows up.
But for now, Nathan’s reaction to hearing his parents is a beautiful showcase of the bond between babies and their parents.
He turns and looks at his parents immediately and breaks into a wide smile.
Watch the video for yourself below!
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