My Story: A Cautionary Tale

Welcome to my story. It’s a journey through the world of cochlear implants and what can happen when things move too fast and symptoms aren’t taken seriously. In my case, it was only about five months from the time I lost my hearing to the time I was implanted. I trusted the specialists around me and believed I was doing the right thing.

 

After activation, I developed symptoms that were unusual, frightening, and hard to live with. I reported them to Dr. Driscoll and his staff told me "that (symptoms) can't be happening but they were. Dr. Driscolk and his staff minimized my symptoms and did not fully document my symptoms. I spent the next several years seeing countless providers, working with two vestibular physical therapists, Primary Care Physician, Dr. Smith.  Thanks to him, he never gave up on me.

 

After multiple calls to Mayo Clinic and Cochlear Americas, finally, the implant was removed—and it was discovered that the electrodes were not actually placed in the cochlea. So, if you experience any of the above problems or different problems, first GO to your implanting surgeon (otolaryngologist) who is the only doctor specializing in cochlear implants.

 

I’m sharing this not to give medical or legal advice, but to tell the truth about what I experienced. My hope is that my story will encourage others to ask questions, and listen closely to your own instincts. Above all, remember this: get help, and don’t feel you have to go through it alone.