Breaking the Stigma: Sandra’s Courageous Hearing Journey

My name is Sandra. I’m 25 years old and from Madrid, Spain. I am a biologist specializing in genetics and cell biology and a researcher in molecular biosciences, particularly in hearing loss and tumors. I love scientific awareness. I try to bring science closer to people in an enjoyable way.

Dealing With the Shock of Hearing Loss

One morning when I was 17, I woke up to the disorienting sound of loud beeping in my ears. I soon realized that I couldn’t hear in one ear anymore, and I had vertigo and dizziness. So I immediately rushed to the hospital where I found out I wouldn’t be able to recover my hearing in my right ear, and my sudden hearing loss would be permanent. Initially, the news was a shock to me, as I found out that hearing loss, even in just one ear, is a more significant challenge than many people would think.

Adapting to Hearing Loss

But I was determined to adapt to my hearing loss as quickly as possible. I wanted to help people around me understand my new situation, so I didn’t hesitate to ask friends and family to speak more clearly or move to my left side so I could understand them better.

However, I had to deal with a lot of people—including myself—underestimating and dismissing me because of my hearing loss. One day, I had an epiphany: Why should I downplay something that had happened to me?

Exploring Cochlear Implant Options

I soon recognized the need to explore my options, so I consulted a doctor. After undergoing several tests, a specialized team concluded that a cochlear implant would be the most suitable solution for me. With the arrangements for surgery underway, I chose the MED-EL implant due to its MRI safety, which is essential for my routine tests for multiple sclerosis.

A New Hearing Experience With My Cochlear Implant

On activation day, the moment I began to hear the beeps, I felt an overwhelming sense of excitement. I knew that a challenging journey lay ahead, but I was eager to discover how my brain would adapt to the new audio signals.

Now that I have a cochlear implant on one side and normal hearing on the other, I can acknowledge that my hearing experience has changed and that I still need to work on my rehabilitation.

Speech Therapy With Cochlear Implants

The initial weeks following activation were filled with noise, making it difficult for me to distinguish words. My brain went through a learning process hearing with the new system. Thanks to the dedicated team of pediatric speech therapists at La Paz Hospital, I progressed from struggling to differentiate different sounds to effortlessly participating in conversations between two people within just six months.

Empowering Others With Hearing Loss

My hearing journey goes beyond my personal triumphs. I strongly believe in empowering others who are navigating the challenges of hearing loss. If you have hearing loss, I recommend consulting not only audiologists but also reaching out to psychological experts who can provide valuable guidance. Your hearing loss does not have to influence your quality of life.

Every person handles such circumstances differently, but it can be helpful to learn from the experience of others. Rather than fearing the situation, I encourage you to embrace the information you get from others and then make informed decisions. For me, taking a risk and pursuing a cochlear implant has been a life-changing decision—one that I now proudly share with others.

My Message of Support and Encouragement

My message to others with hearing loss is clear: Your hearing loss does not define you or limit your quality of life. By embracing your options, you can regain confidence, enjoy conversations, and unlock new possibilities. Let my hearing journey guide you toward a future where hearing loss is not a barrier but a stepping stone to a vibrant and fulfilling life.