My name is Tanja, I come from Gleisdorf and I am a bilateral implant wearer myself. In 2014, I suffered several hearing losses after the birth of my daughter. The diagnosis: severe hearing loss on both sides. However, I already had hearing difficulties as a teenager. The diagnosis finally gave me certainty and also relief. I decided to get cochlear implants because there was no other option for me to ever be able to hear again.

My life with hearing implants has changed in a very positive way. I can be around people again, make phone calls, enjoy music and talk to my family and friends without any problems. I now feel safe in everyday life. I enjoy hearing birdsong and the chirping of crickets, which I was never able to do before. I also enjoy being out in nature, my favorite sounds are crunching leaves and rushing streams. I can also do my job normally and without any problems. I can no longer imagine life without CIs, they have made my life worth living.
My advice for those affected is to accept help (ENT doctor, speech therapist, CI technician). Talking to other affected people can also give you a lot of strength.