Hearing Aids in the Sound Booth

  Today we got to test E in the sound booth for the first time while wearing his hearing aids. We found that his right one does seem to be beneficial. He is still not in a functional hearing range, but he is able to hear more than we thought.  Now, we just have to convince him that the sounds he DOES hear are of any significance so he will begin to take notice of them. Right now, he seems to hear things, but sound currently does not seem to interest him and so he largely ignores it. We have to keep reminding ourselves that he has only been "listening" with his aids for three months and so he will likely respond to sounds the same way a three-month-old hearing child would. We are looking forward to our first meeting next month to discuss cochlear implants.

  E is continuing to really flourish with signing. I feel that ASL will always be an important part of his life regardless of his future hearing ability or lack thereof. We recently purchased the documentary DVD, "Through Deaf Eyes." It was a very informative look at deaf history and culture. After watching it, I am SO VERY GRATEFUL that E was born during this generation of technology and information. I am so happy to know that the only thing that can ever limit him will be himself. If he continues to have the personality that he currently exhibits, he will be unstoppable!