Well, I am home and somewhat rested.
I had my initial appointment the afternoon of July 23rd. The audiologist connected the speech processor (little computer box that converts sound into digital impulses) to his computer. Then he connected it to me with the external apparatus. He then tested each electrode individually by gradually increasing the signal level until I began hearing something. I heard sound on all but a few, but some gave me uncomfortable side effects so they are not used in my program. I think that I am using 12 of the 24 electrodes. I hear mainly two pitches, so most things sound the same. However, I do notice differences in timbre. I described this to my wife like someone playing the same note on a xylophone but using mallets that are made of different materials. So, I am learning to hear all over again. I can't yet distinguish much between the sounds that I hear, but I guess that will come with time.
We are thrilled and extremely thankful that this is working. And there is hope that our lives will improve.
Take care,
Jeff
