Update on Moving Forward!  On July 1, 2025, I took another big step on my hearingspanglish journey—I went in for the evaluation for Side 2 of my cochlear implant.

I found myself back in the audiology booth going through the multitude of testing, confirming that my right ear is a candidate.  In addition, testing was completed with my cochlear implant and the difference between ears is significant and notable.  After testing, my audiologist, Dr. Debbie LaPrete, confirmed what I had been sensing. The next steps of selection were simpler the second time around!  She also completed some mapping adjustments. Cochlear implant mapping requires a balance of objective data and patient feedback. I’m fortunate to work with an audiologist who approaches this with flexibility, adjusting settings based on both clinical measures and my real-world listening experience.

I also met with my surgeon, Dr. Oliver Adunka. Trusting your surgeon is important—especially on a journey like this. Dr. Oliver Adunka brings not only exceptional skill but a calm, patient-centered approach. He listens, explains, and truly values shared decision-making. That kind of connection between patient and physician brings real peace of mind heading into surgery. We reviewed everything together, and I left that appointment with a confirmed surgery date: December 5.  

Ideally, I had hoped to complete this surgery over the summer. But between my schedule and the availability of my care team, things didn’t quite align. That said, I’m at peace with the timing. My ear is still receiving some benefit, so this isn’t an emergency—just taking this next step forward in my hearingspanglish marathon. Knowing I have some residual hearing gives me time to plan, prepare, and move ahead.

There’s still one piece pending—insurance approval. That part typically happens closer to the surgery date, so for now, I wait.