Once again, Welcome!. As for teh CI surgery, It is actually a pretty safe procedure. It is sometimes doen on an outpatient basis.
Just to fill you in. Lilly was born with a profound loss. We tried the HA, they didnt work, we got the CI (freedom) and she has flourished! SHe had never really heard speech before the CI. Less than one month after surgery, she said her first word, "Uh-Oh". In just over one year of having the CI she has developed about 200 words, understands speech at a 3 1/2 year old level. And speaks at around a 2 year old level. Her progress is remarkable. Her teacher and speech therapist say her progress is "off the charts".
Be forewarned that evetones progress varies. I cannot emphsize how important it is for you to do your research. You have come to the right place for questions and support, but you must get out there on teh computer, talking to doctors, other deaf people (both CI and no CI) to form your opinion. Remember, there are alot of people that will try to prevent you from getting your child a CI. Others will try to push a CI down your throat. The important thing to remember is that this is your child you you must do what you feel is right/best for her. You are the one that wil;l have to sit down and explain to your kid why they are different than others when they ask. When your kid gets older, you are also the one that will have to justify your actions to your child. So be honest with yourself and your child.
