Indi’s journey with hearing loss began when she was just a toddler. Around the age of one or two, her mum noticed that although she was babbling, her language development wasn’t progressing as expected. Concerned, she decided to have Indi’s hearing checked. Tests revealed that Indi had moderate to severe hearing loss, which was profound in both ears.
Determined to provide her daughter with the best support, Indi’s mum enrolled her in group programs at The Shepherd Centre, where they gained access to invaluable early intervention services. Indi was fitted with hearing aids at a young age, helping her navigate the world of sound.
Transitioning to Cochlear Implants
As Indi grew older, she realised that her hearing aids were no longer meeting her needs. Sounds felt too quiet, and she found herself missing important details in conversations and her environment. In 2020, with the support of Tess from The Shepherd Centre, Indi began the transition to her first cochlear implant.
Adjusting to the new sounds from her cochlear implant was a challenge. At first, they were overwhelming, she described them as “beeping and loud, annoying screeching.” It took immense focus and dedication to discern voices among the unfamiliar noises. The adjustment took about a year and a half, but her perseverance paid off.
As Indi approached adulthood, she knew she wanted to study nursing at the University of Wollongong. With her future career in mind, she decided to get a second cochlear implant at 18 to ensure she had the best hearing support possible.
“I felt that having two cochlear implants would help me hear as effectively as possible, which is essential for my studies and future career,” Indi shares.
Unlike her first cochlear implant, which required a long adjustment period, the second cochlear implant was much easier. Within three weeks, she noticed significant improvements in her hearing. The transition was smoother, and she felt more confident navigating everyday conversations and new environments.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite the significant improvements her cochlear implants have provided, Indi still faces challenges. Listening fatigue is a common struggle, especially in noisy environments like restaurants. In those moments, she sometimes wishes she could switch her cochlear implants off to escape the overwhelming noise. Fortunately, her partner is incredibly supportive, understanding when she needs to take breaks and enjoy moments of silence.
Before receiving her second cochlear implant, she often struggled in noisy school hallways and at her supermarket job, where background music and ambient noise made communication with customers difficult. These experiences have strengthened her resilience and adaptability.
Finding Joy in Sound and Sport
Indi’s appreciation for sound has grown immensely since receiving her cochlear implants. She loves listening to all kinds of music, watching Netflix, and playing netball.
“When you don’t have sounds and then suddenly hear them, you really start to appreciate all the small sounds,” she says. Netball, in particular, is a source of joy for her, as it allows her to focus purely on the physical activity rather than the need to listen intently.
A Mother’s Perspective
Indi’s mum recalls feeling “sad and scared” upon first receiving her daughter’s diagnosis. As a single mother, she faced the daunting challenge of navigating “a whole new world” and worried about what Indi’s future would hold. However, through the support and resources available at The Shepherd Centre, she gained confidence and was able to continue to support her daughter through her journey.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Indi prepares to start university this March, she reflects on how far she has come. From early intervention at The Shepherd Centre to embracing the challenges and rewards of cochlear implants, she is now stepping into a future filled with opportunities.
