Hearing Matters Podcast Sami Rigby's Inspiring Journey with Ménière's Disease and Single-Sided Deafness
What would you do if you suddenly lost your hearing? Sami Rigby, an Australian advocate and someone who knows this question all too intimately, joins us for an enlightening conversation on managing Meniere's Disease and her experience getting a Cochlear implant. Sami takes us through her personal journey, sharing how she moved from a moderate to severe hearing loss amidst the COVID-19 lockdown, the emotional toll it took and how she discovered the power of self-care and the courage to prioritize her needs.
Isn't it fascinating how the brain adapts to new challenges? Sammy's experience with her Cochlear implant goes beyond just a medical device, it's about the brain merging the sounds from the implant with natural hearing - a process Sami describes with vivid detail. From initially sounding robotic to gradually resembling someone speaking through a microphone, she shares the strategies she uses in noisy environments and the importance of shifting mindsets in social situations. It's an account that not only demystifies the Cochlear implant but also gives a voice to the Meniere's community.
There's a special triumph in overcoming obstacles and reclaiming your life, and Sami's personal victories are a testament to that. She opens up about her acclimation process with the Cochlear implant, the tools that helped her along the way, and the importance of hearing protection. Her story is a beacon of hope, reminding us of the resilience of the human spirit, and how technology is transforming lives in the hearing loss community. Join us for this inspiring conversation that will leave you with a renewed appreciation for the everyday activities we often take for granted.
Connect with Sami Rigby on Instagram: @deafjamsami
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