The Ugly Truth of CI

January 17, 2008 in Uncategorized

109 comments

January 17, 2008 at 3:59 am

Roger

I’m glad that you have Mathrew to share about CI. Its hit me and don’t want see other children suffer like that. Its need to be STOP. Look foward for more vlog about it. Look foward for them to stop force ci on children.

How would hearing people feel if I force my hearing son to be DEAF. Use loud music or something to make him DEAF. Thats what I want him to be. Sorry, I’m deaf so my son gotta be deaf same as me. I bet hearing people feel I’m abuse and force… They will feel its not right… Same idea what they did to deaf children…. They are abuse innocent children…

I can understand for a person who are older like over 18 years old and been as hearing person whole their life… Happen to be lost hear…. Feel not used being not hear… They can speak very well and understand the words… Its ok to be CI… I understand….

But born to be DEAF… Leave them alone…. It’s natural and accept who they are… As for blind, we can’t shove their eyes out and put new eyes, able to see.

Hearing people just need to ACCEPT that there are DEAF people in world. Hearing parents would not have any problem with their deaf children if they accept to learn sign language.. If they sign language well, then it will goes well and along..

Same and Same problem about hearing people not accept about DEAF. Sometime I feel that they scare and afraid we beat them or better than them….

Basic everyday Deaf/Hearing person does Eat/Sleep and urine.. Rest of it’s up to them..

HEARING never been PERFECT though… So, deaf can’t be perfect to be hearing….

January 17, 2008 at 4:49 am

DeafRush

I’m so happy that my deaf son did not have C.I. My wife and I knew it was too much pain for him.

Matthew should hire the lawyer to sue C.I. company. He and his wife have the plenty of evidences. A lot of hospital bills can be used as the evidence in the court. Also, he can make the case that he cannot lead his normal life because he have to deal with the pain in his head for the rest of his life. He can ask his deaf community in Wisconsin to raise the funds to pay the lawyer. Sometimes, the lawyer will take his case at no charge because he will take 33% if he wins in the court.

It’s up to Matthew if he wants to take a legal action against C.I. company. All he needs to do is find a good lawyer and see where they can go from there. It won’t hurt him to discuss with the lawyer first before he decides if he wants to go ahead and sue them. For the interpreter issue, Matthew can always use the VRS to discuss with his lawyer. My friend used VRS to discuss with his lawyer about the divorce. It did not charge the lawyer or my friend a penny for using the interpreter.

January 17, 2008 at 5:47 am

Susan

Matt should sue her parents and the doctors for forcing him to have CI
against his wishes and for causing health problems including daily hammering migraine and miss work. He’s lucky to have his wife as a witness. Not too late to sue now.

January 17, 2008 at 6:32 am

Of course 15 years ago CI surgeries were barbaric. CI now days are not as bad as back then. Incision is smaller. Still, at 14 yrs old, Matt should have had his say in this surgery.

January 17, 2008 at 3:29 pm

Deafkathy

That is so distrubing and breaks my heart big time knowing someone would do something like this to Matthew or to another victims!
I am so happy you thought of this and vlog about the experience with CIs.

KUDOs

January 17, 2008 at 4:29 pm

ASL Risen

Not right for the teachers, professionals and doctors to help his parents go against their son’s wish by accepting his love for being Deaf! Why can’t they LISTEN, let and accept his own decision “NO” in the first place???

January 17, 2008 at 4:35 pm

RLM

Matthew’s public admission on your vlog is really one of the most IMPORTANT vlog posting ever on the DeafRead.com. His video testimony is really very POWERFUL and IMPORTANT!

PLEASE establish the deaf lobbying group to fight back against the tide of audists/audism and get the state and federal legislators.

Many thanks to Matthew for his generosity and willingness to share his tragic story about having CI in his head. Hope that Matthew will able to get his good health back. He deserve it very much.

Susan is absolutely right about you and your wife ought to sue the CI doctor and manfacturer. No matter how the ironclad hosptial waiver form

THANKS TO YOU AND MATTHEW FOR THIS SIGNIFICANT VLOG POSTING EVER ON THE DEAFREAD.COM!!

Robert L. Mason (RLM)
RLMDEAF blog

January 17, 2008 at 5:06 pm

a big dream

It’s good to show a whole truth. CI doesn’t work for everyone. Rache’s website is too rosey.

January 17, 2008 at 5:20 pm

Deaf Pixie

Mathew’s story is really made deaf or hard of hearing people or show your parents to read their story about medical bill pile up because CI did made any kind of inference of your migraine headaches and he should sue to his doctor for not honesty with his parents. The parents did not know about CI specifically is wrong information.

The Parent did get right things to put you CI. I know if you sue to parent. It will be painful. I just suggested you to sue to his doctor and show parent how you go through with medical bills pile up.

C.I can damage of your health. If you contuine Advil or Ibupofen tablets often cause your stomach bleeding. You have to be more carefully and Tell doctor to remove CI. your hearing loss is profound hearing loss might be different.

Think about remove CI and will reduce your headaches. Sue to his former doctor. Show your parents during court, I dont think Parent’s fault. Age 14 yr have no way to be enpowered to your parents and dont know what they made you do to put your head… Tell your lawyer to watch your story. he will be serious to against your doctor.. and get oath in court and question your parents.. Who is fault?

Avoid to hurt your parents. I think I blame your doctor misinformation.

😉

January 17, 2008 at 5:21 pm

Deaf Pixie

To Mathew, Good idea to sue doctor and not your parents..
Please Listen to RLM’s

Deaf Pixie

January 17, 2008 at 6:04 pm

ASL Risen

Matthew, thank you so much for showing the real truth. Oh Gosh! I feel so bad that you and your wife went thru so much horrible tough life! Both of you need to sue the doctor. Show that film to the lawyer and have all the medication bills and hospital bills show to your lawyer. You need more peaceful life. I feel so proud of you finally came out the truth! And also I hope you will find more peaceful life! Blame your doctor for not having close bondings with your parents for so long time!

January 17, 2008 at 6:15 pm

Debbie C.

*CLAP CLAP CLAP CLAP* Wonderful facts to be told/shown yet disgusting nevertheless. I have always been AGAINST Cochlear Implants in the beginning and yet people are still STUPID/IGNORANT. Thank you for the eye opening video. Keep up the good work Mr. Jack………..

January 17, 2008 at 7:24 pm

Missy Keast

What a better word to say about Mathew’s story… is wow with (a sad face). What a traumatic experience for him. He does not deserve that. His parents are also victim in the medical world. Almost hate to say most of us are very naive in the medical world. We all think doctors could help us which is not true. According to Mathew’s migraine, headaches and vomiting… is not worth to tolerate. I wish I could help him.

Jack, you are funny! But… GREAT job to have Mathew sharing his experience. How about talking to his parents too? I am sure that his parents would share some great insights that we are not aware of it. Maybe his parents regret miserably now? Wonder…

January 17, 2008 at 7:48 pm

cookiebug

Well spoken!!! Bravo!!!

January 17, 2008 at 8:23 pm

Jean Boutcer

Matthew, I have found your story quite
appalling. My friend has just read it and
responded the same: “Appalling, lasting
side effects on the health of CI users.”

Matthew, I am not a lawyer, but I have
heard stories about MALPRACTICE.
Unquestionably, your case was a result
of malpractice. I would suggest that you
consider consulting the NAD. Perhaps they
would suggest that you file a lawsuit. Save
all your notes from different doctors about
your headaches and record of absence of
work. In light of your illness, emotional strain
(not to mention your wife’s emotional strain),
do not make a settlement for less than
$5 million!

I deeply sympathise and please keep in
touch with us. We shall be only too happy
to lend you our moral support. Memorize
that forever!

Jean Boutcher

January 17, 2008 at 9:07 pm

robert mason

Thank you, Deaf Pixie, but I should not get the whole credit for the idea of suing doctor. That is Susan ‘s idea in the first place, then I add “manfacturer”.

Bill, let’s email to the DeafRead editors to give the SPECIAL DeafRead vlog award of the year or do it ourselves.

Jack’s Eye is very refreshing vlogsite with many human interests stories affecting deaf people.

DeafRead editors probably overlook Jack’s Eyes vlog for the entry of best political/advocacy vlog presentation.

Gary Brooke’s vlog should end up in the comedy category.

JACK’S EYES is NO.#1 vlog next to other vlogsites!

RLM

January 17, 2008 at 9:11 pm

patti durr

Jack – thank you for gathering visual testimonies of Deaf people who have gotten CI

Matthew and wife – thank you for sharing your experiences

We need to see all sides of this really controversial topic

I have taught many students who have CI – some love theres, many dont use theirs any more, and others still have suffered emotional and physical harm from their CIs

Really appreciate ur effort to see out folks to share their stories. My concerns with some blog/vlog sites is that they either show all positive POVs or all negative POVs

i trust that u will seek out and show both

this is the only way we can get a full understanding of this topic and try to find a unified and positive way to respond

thank you again for creating this film – and inserting the intertitles etc

Matthew – thank u for sharing your story. You are a gifted and eloquent in ASL

I wish you and your wife all the best and much peace

patti durr

January 17, 2008 at 9:28 pm

robert mason

Where can I get the “STOP Cochlear Implant” t-shirt? I wanna buy it, but prefer polo shirt.

I want to wear it as a walking billboard in DC area where many important people works and live there.

RLM

January 17, 2008 at 10:15 pm

carolyn

wow, i wld not allow for my kids and rather to see them happy than frustration and angry.. my mother only gave me to wear the hearing aid, which is ok.. yes, agree with u not to force the kids or babies…

January 17, 2008 at 10:19 pm

Jeff

its good one, when I was turned 18 years old My Dad asked me want to surgery CI. I said NO WAY! I m happy Deaf and I dont want to learn speak or hear. He understand ok no problem. he didnt force me. also my wife when turn 18 years old her father asked to do want to CI she said no same things. Keep Open schools for the Deaf.

January 17, 2008 at 10:26 pm

Jeff

I was born Hearing 18 months old. I got very sick Menigitis. became Deaf. I dont remember what look like hearing, happy deaf! and my wife born unknow deaf. When people have babies deaf dont force to CI wait unitl 18 years old want to decide want or not!

January 17, 2008 at 11:20 pm

Just RaMo

Great insight into the ugly truth behind the CI, the issue I have here is the impact of your vlog, it only appeals and has access for Deaf Americans who already share our opinions, we really need to reach out to these potential victims out there, our young deaf generations who are born into hearing families and lured with medical cures and technologies…

What point do you have in this vlog with no access for hearing parents who may consider an implant for their young deaf child? How would you stop them considering an implant for their child if you let them have no idea in what is being said in your vlog. Even as a BSL user (UK based here), I’ve to struggle with some of the ASL signs…

I wouldn’t be surprised if hearing parents choose to ignore the remarks and the tragic story, it would be sad to see your investigation go wasted. Get a terp to transcribe what is said or even to speak and dub the video…

All the best.

January 17, 2008 at 11:23 pm

asldeaf

HI Jack,

This is good for people to know about what CI did to them and I am glad that I or my two deaf children or their two deaf children did not get CI.

We are happy being bilingual.

Looking forward being with you in June.

John Egbert

January 17, 2008 at 11:57 pm

Michele

I once knew a late deafened man who had a cochlear implant, it was downhill for him after surgery, he got so sick and eventually died. I lost track of his ex-wife but if I get ahold of her, I’ll ask her about her husband and see if she would be willing to share his story as it is a heartbreaking story.

Matt, I am so sorry to hear about your CI failure, it wasn’t fair to you and now you have to suffer the consequences. Does your doctor know about it? Deaf people who have CI failures should set up a class action lawsuit before too long.

Jack, thanks for sharing this story with us.

January 18, 2008 at 12:11 am

Michelle

I want to say this…I have severe profound deafness. With hearing aid, I can hear some and can speak very well. I do believe the CI have better technology now yet I do believe no one should be force into having this unless they really want it. Being deaf or hearing, you should be accept the way they are. I am saddened that his parents were so ignorant about their son’s feeling about this. He should sue against the doctors/hospital who did this to him. He shouldn’t be suffering with headaches/migraines. I pray for the best for whatever he decides. I do hope his parents can see NOW that he is happy being deaf!

January 18, 2008 at 12:22 am

BFV51

Hello Mathew

I am glad you did be strong tell the people whole story whew wow and you have good faith as me too be strong faith but God still will help you very soon get well but better for you go see Dr. get you fix do right back your life normal save your chewish health , hey wonder cant remove the cochlear implant ? it too late ? Hope you will see my (http://billyfunnyvideos.blogspot.com/) look call name cochlear implant show that was first in about 1985 between 1988 from Deaf Mosaic for severals years later notice more and more spread worse with cochlear implant. I was used be wear hearing aids in about 1954 to 1962 stop throw away still does not work at all in my brain from any words or letter from my ears nothing from any who people try to speaking to me nothing at all because cant hear at all and rather normal and pretty ASL. God made the way born real cant help it same things with other with who problem with Dib. but the hearing people have no understand how deaf people’s feel and not know what deaf background life oh boy sighing…
Hope you get well very soon please dont get suffer or delay too long and better go see Dr. plm with your ear reason want see you be happy back your normal health ok ! : ) Your show is great . Tks BC

January 18, 2008 at 12:30 am

jackbarr

This is David, Jack’s Eyes Vlog Editor. Jack asked me to post this up for him.

Jack asked me to remove any comments about deafread nominations. He said that this issue is not important to us since we need to work together to focus on bigger issues that would help to make the difference for us as deaf people.

He said he have lot of respect for Deafread editors for their hard work and would like to give his congratulations to these people who got nominated as he enjoyed watching their vlogs.

Lastly, he would like to thank to you all for watching Jack’s Eyes and all of your great comments.

January 18, 2008 at 1:31 am

Chriz

Matthew, thank you for sharing your powerful and heartfelt story.

Jack, thank you for vlogging Matthew’s story. You are right that we need to get more of these stories out in the public… too many parents just don’t know.

Last Fall, when I taught a Deaf Culture class for counseling students, one student did an amazing presentation comparing the differences between parents who do CI on their babies and parents who decide on a gender for their “intersex” baby (some babies are sometimes born without a gender that clearly marks them as male or female).

My student found out that many Intersex adults are frustrated and angry about their parents picking a gender and performing surgery. Many times the parents/ doctor chose the wrong gender so the baby grow up stuck with that gender that does not feel right, and/or the surgery caused a lot of pain or medical problems in adulthood. They want to be left alone as they are, and learning to be proud with their Intersex identity.

Intersex adults established an organization called Intersex Society, and they give advice to parents and doctors to leave intersex babies alone. Wait until the baby has grown old enough to decide if they want to pick a gender and have surgery. If they don’t want to, then respect their decision. They explain that Intersex adults live fulfilling lives when left alone and respected as who they are.

My student compared the difference with how Intersex Society and National Association of the Deaf give advice to parents. What she found was that NAD was “neutral” and also they did not post all the dangers or risks of the surgery!! Intersex Society posted a strong position, and published all the risks. The student, who is a parent herself, said that she appreciated those organizations that made STRONG positions because it helps her realize how serious the situation is for her child, and will make her consider the facts more carefully.

So, with that in mind, I propose that we issue a CHALLENGE to the NAD, State Associations of the Deaf, and Schools for the Deaf to consider making STRONG positions about CI on babies/ children, and publish ALL the known health/ medical dangers and emotional harm to the child’s soul when they realize parents do not accept them as they are.

January 18, 2008 at 1:50 am

nomad

(i’m a hearing interpreter) so painful to watch this testimonial…
i think it’s important to have this translated into either spoken english or captions so that it can be sent to people we all know with deaf babies, parents’ organizations, etc. of course people have a variety of experiences with CIs but i think *all* the stories have to be told to the people who are continuing to act without full information, full understanding or knowledge of asl or deafhood.

January 18, 2008 at 3:26 am

jackbarr

We are having problems with wordpress. If you already posted comments (except deafread nominations issues)and find it not there, please post it up again. We apologize for the incovenience.

Thank you,

Jack’s Eyes Team

January 18, 2008 at 4:29 am

Joey Baer

Jack and team,

Thanks so much for posting this vlog. This is VERY important and I look forward to your DOCUMENTARY videos! Documentary will be our powerful tool in fighting for what is right for Deaf children!

After watching Matthew sharing his story, it stayed in my head almost all day. I feel your pain and I certainly hope he will eventually get well soon.
I am also curious how your parents feel about the surgery? Did they regret it? If they would do this all over again, what would they do?

If they realize that they would do differently these days, then I hope they will join you in fighting what’s best for our Deaf children.

Deaf is BEAUTIFUL. Deaf is a gift from God!

January 18, 2008 at 5:45 am

What a heartfelt…I had tears after see this guy sharing his horrible experince with CI and I get so FURIOUS why didnt his parents listen to him at the first place.
Hell with the doctors .. they just want $$$ is all they care.

Now that guy is getting sick and sick.. I think YOU should go for lawsuit.

And please do share to many many hearing parents who are considering to have CI on thier children.
How dangerous it is..not WORTH!

Suppose we deaf parents want hearing children to become deaf like parents? How can that be done?
NO sense to do that so vise versa hearing parents to deaf children.

LEAVE IT ALONE.

I hope you will get better soon.
SB

January 18, 2008 at 6:37 am

seekgeo

Wow, this is very powerful video! That is something we all have to listen both sides of positive and negative about cochlear implants because it seems that all we ever hear about is positive and how so successful they are but we have to be real that CI was not around for 50 years so that’s why we had to wait many years until we finally have some real negatives.

As we all know how when something is new, they have to talk good about it until someone else figure it out later on then the real truth comes out.

That’s exactly what you are doing, excellent job! The biggest question is how can we send this powerful message to all parents of deaf kids who plans to implant their kids, they need to listen to BOTH positive and negative before they make the decision.

I guarantee you, most if not all of them only hear positive sides. So, back to my biggest question, how can we send this messages to them? Maybe if you’d like me to help you out by adding captions for you at no charges. I’m here to help to get your messages across not only to parents, also rest of others.

Just holler if you need! By the way, loved your funny end of this video, he he.

🙂

-SG

January 18, 2008 at 7:02 am

JungleForest

What a heartbreaking story! Glad Matthew got to speak out from his own terrifying experience with CI. I like his shirt, “STOP Cochlear Implants!” Once surgery (on CI), a little becomes too much.

That’s wonderful for Matthew’s wife is very supportive and comfort his painful what he has went through with his surgery, mirgaine, and everything. Both are beautiful people.

Thanks for sharing his testimony. Hearing people need to hear this, and gotta stop CI on deaf people. Deafies are natural and beautiful!

Agreed with Jack, a very ugly truth behind the CI. Indeed!

Excellent vlog!

January 18, 2008 at 11:43 am

Crrie

I just wanted to say…i know actually how matthew feels. Even his wife. Cuz my paretns and my husband at thte time wanted me to hear and i was 29 years old. and im 33 and dont even wear tem anymore cuz it put me thru alot of pain. Im glad he put his ci away and i wish i could too. sooo much money to take it out and go thru it.. thanks matthew. It was worth to watch.

January 18, 2008 at 1:45 pm

PANY Lighthouse

***Heart breaking in half*** An incredibly POWERFUL vlog — Matthew displays a brave soul with a beautiful heart telling the TRUTH behind CI — we are glad to see MORE on the other side of CI controversy coming out RAW from the persons like Matthew who experienced it thoroughly! We would like to see more testimonies out of this documentary! This should and would be a RAW message to the Hearing parents out there — listen to the UGLY truth behind CI!

Jack, a well-done job and we look forward to more stories from this!

~Ginny & Ward

January 18, 2008 at 3:49 pm

Coach Creech

I really appreciate your brave sharing those terrible experiences with all of us. You have touch my heart, and will keep you in my mind. May God Bless You. Jack, superb job! T’care Coach Creech

January 18, 2008 at 3:58 pm

Windell K. Smith

I Knew that about issues belind “CI” truly wrong idea for the deaf-born! I SICK of that! I agreed this should not have “abuse” who did already have CI on deaf babies/children as since the hearing parents around the world so far!
I like his shirt, “STOP Cochlear Implants!” but seems like fade away or he did use it too much? I do proud of his shirt it anyway!

Jack, Two thumbs-up!

January 18, 2008 at 5:23 pm

Rena Jo Arnold

The hearing world with scientific knowledges are treating the innocent deaf children as guniea pigs, and this has to be stopped now. Do they ever treat the hearing blind children as guniea pigs getting eye implantments? I am just wondering.

Jack, thank you for bringing up this issue for everyone to know about the ugly truth of CI, and also thank Matthew for sharing his experience with CI.

January 18, 2008 at 5:34 pm

YOU WITH DBC AT MILWAUKEE? « Children of the Eye

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January 18, 2008 at 5:39 pm

opal g deering

i had been go to doctor about surgery my but i ask to my friend about the ci and my friend said no no let me then i wrote to doctor what i explain about this i respect my friend i wrote about drop and caneled for surgery mine for ci and this really not good for the children or teenages or adults too because god make all of the people’s body for let all the deaf people are very natural i must respect to god and my friend i am listen my friend’s say no let me have the ci as never never again i respect my friend’s say you know that my other friendyoung guy had surgery ci long time he said that he had headache all the so he told me that he remove off his ci and he wants to sign like deaf people he feel better now he is okay he told me that he never wear his ci forever period thanks opal

January 18, 2008 at 6:32 pm

Terrie

Yeah TRUE, God make people natural life NOT NEED CI for what .. DONT LISTEN PARENTS WISH.

Hope everyone who suffer with CI please remove ci out and make everyone get better less heahache or mirgranie …

Take care

January 18, 2008 at 8:37 pm

LRF

Give me two boxes of Pepto, please! It’s sad!!

January 18, 2008 at 8:46 pm

powchutu

Matt (And those who experienced same as Matt)…

Very sorry you experienced this terrible ordeal,

please get a LAWYER (with an interpreter!) sue the doctors who implanted the CI before the doctors disappear!!!!!

We have people in Kentucky that does not wear CI anymore – they do not wish to discuss the matter, get the picture?

Besides COOL T-shirt Matt!

Selling them?

My family & I would like to buy some!

That can raise FUNDS to do whatever you need in order to get a lawyer & spread the word!

Jack’s EYE, you’re all GROOVY!

powchutu

January 18, 2008 at 8:48 pm

Mia

I thank you to show us about The Ugly Truth of CI, CI will never cure at all. I hope give these who have CI with health issues or something really bother then Please to write or email to CONGRESS, LOBBYISTS, ETC to stop making spread more CI on people or block the CI manufacture.

January 18, 2008 at 8:52 pm

Deaf Mater

Wow… Poor Matthew… Strong topic … thank you

January 18, 2008 at 9:26 pm

Laura

I knowabout CI. My best reind herself born deaf woman .Se was wear CI then She wa be;ive then aftr took mistake should not CI it too ate now She as passed away 31year old how get died falut of CI . I felt bad left out of her ow beauiful 3 childrens no father.So All 3 chilrens foster home new
Parents. Please don’t try new life ok Thank you,Laura

January 18, 2008 at 10:01 pm

Marguerite Constable

It is a heartbreaking story that Matthew shared. I was hoping for someone to share that story — now it is Matthew who shared!! I am glad to see him on this video. I am not surprised he went through this with the migraine headache. Matthew, you did this to please your parents, however; this experience may be horrible for you. The truth has come out to see that ci do not really make a deaf person successful in a hearing world. THANKS, Matthew, for telling us your truth.

I truly believe that a hearing person can NEVER UNDERSTAND what is like to be deaf – be it an oral deaf person or an ASL deaf person. I will NEVER understand why hearing parents and other hearing people cannot ACCEPT that we are DEAF. If they cannot accept that, then they cannot accept what God allowed us to be DEAF for His own reason.

January 18, 2008 at 10:06 pm

EDWARD

we the deaf people need to tell those hearing people that force CI, stop controlling deaf peoples’ life.
oh, one more thing; how can we stop them fast?… we the deaf people work together can!
GOOD LUCK
P.S. I myself strongly against CI!

January 18, 2008 at 11:09 pm

yvonne

hello i belive that is natural for that way and not belive in cl for that it is that way god do that way and never force children or it will hurt them bad and will not forgive parent for what happen dont force it let them what they want it i belive in deaf natural life

January 19, 2008 at 1:18 am

unknown

There are people out there with CI didnt not have any problems. I am one of them who has CI and proud to wear it. This does not stop me from being invlove with the deaf community. Its everyones has different wishes either be aganist CI or not. I wanted to hear and I am the one who wanted it. I do not have any problems having CI and no pain in my past 15 years of wearing it! So I beleive that parents should not force their kids for CI its their choice if they wanted it or not.

January 19, 2008 at 1:21 am

Lisa

That is very sad and shame on doctors and hearing parents who force deaf children which they didnt realize that is GOD’S PLANS for deaf children. That is God’s plans and not people decision. Mind hearing people business. I oppose cochlear implant too. I dont agree with what hearing parents to force deaf children to have ci and not right. It is real sad. I thank God because my parents told me that they are proud that way I am deaf. They said they never feel bother with deaf at all. They love deaf and understand. I have 1 deaf brother and 1 sister and I am young sister and 1 niece and few deaf cousins as far who have deaf too. WOW. I NOTICE HEARING PEOPLE think deaf people are animals or weird because of ASL action with hands and make hearing people feel sick and embarrassed huh. I think ASL is so cool awesome cuz I grew up with 2 deaf bro and sis who tend communicate with me. Few told me that they hide deaf children to stay home wow sad. I feel like scream at hearing people for forcing deaf innocent children wow . What a SHAME ! Keep fight for our deaf rights ! Don’t give up our dream successful that way we can ! AMEN

January 19, 2008 at 2:58 am

Earl Christensen, Hoopeston, IL 60942

I FEEL THAT WE SHOULD FILE A “CLASS ACT” SUIT AGAINST THOSE WHOM THINK THE CI IS THE ANSWER FOR DEAFNESS . . . I KNOW IT IS NOT . . IT JUST HELPED ME COMMUNICATE WITH THE BIRDS . . . BUT WITH PEOPLE . . . CI WILL NEVER REPLACE AN HEARING INDIVIDUAL.
THE CI INDUSTRY AND DOCTORS ARE GOING TO FAR IN THEIR SURGE FOR CI IMPLANTS IN CHILDREN.
ONLY ANSWER IS A “CLASS ACT” SUIT . . . TO STOP THE ROBBERS . . . ALWAYS WORKING TO MAKE $$$$$$$$$$$$$$ . . . BEFORE AND AFTER ANY IMPLANT . . THERE IS A BURDEN FOR EVERYONE RECEIVING A CI AND THE PARENTS OF CI CHILDREN . . . . . IT MUST STOP NOW.

January 19, 2008 at 3:49 am

moi

There are many people with CI who are proud to wear their CI, there are many people who were FORCED to wear CI. BUT the real issue at heart here is the IGNORANCE OF THE HEARING PEOPLE!!

January 19, 2008 at 2:42 pm

Kim

I think Mathew needs to have his CI removed as soon as possible. It seems that he can’t tolerate the severe pain anymore. My heart goes to Mathew and his wife for telling their stories about CI destroyed his identity. As a Deaf person, I strongly disagree that CI could benefit Deaf children. CI is not always 100% effective at all.

I admit that I was very glad that I said no to my mom after she saw the segment about CI on TV in the middle 1980s. She eventually gave up and left me alone after I protested against her suggestions. Years later, she realized that CI is not always effective at all.

Doctors, audiologists, and medical people should have give the parents of Deaf children several options, not just one option: oral approach. They should know better that it is a false hope for the parents.

I have a feeling that CI devices will be worthless in the future.

January 19, 2008 at 3:05 pm

A special thank you to Matthew Fowler and his wife for sharing their experience with us.

I am a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) and I am HEARING. I am fluent in ASL, and I am ACTIVELY involved in the deaf community. I am opposed to cochlear implants being used, but I believe in the person having a right to choose whether or not they want one, and NOT TO BE LOOKED DOWN UPON FOR IT.

I am reading the comments, and while some are very good, and very supportive, some are sad, and angry, and taking the entire CI issue and turning it into a HEARING against DEAF issue. This is not the case! We should be taking an active part in EDUCATING people, both deaf and hearing!

This is what REALLY breaks my heart! This is NOT NOT NOT a “deaf” issue, this is a “FAMILY” issue!!! Proper education and explanation is the real answer, not class action lawsuits and ripping families apart because of lawsuits!

Please Jack, make your vblog educational for those hearing people who have deaf children and simply don’t know what to do. Please add captioning, or audio to it. ALL PEOPLE need to be educated in CI.

Thank you.

January 19, 2008 at 3:36 pm

Bob

This isn’t the “Ugly Truth.” This is a OPINION. The TRUTH is, CIs aren’t for everyone, but neither is deaf culture.

I’m sorry to hear that Matt didn’t like his experience. On the other hand, there are many, many, MANY other CI users who do, and are thankful they were implanted early.

I have a CI, and I did not lose my deaf identity, I created my OWN identity from it. I still sign daily, but now I can enjoy music, phones, and conversation with hearing people.

CI’s work. So sorry to those who hate CI’s, but as long as they actually work, kids and everyone should be able to get them, whether or not the deaf community agrees. ASL is not going to go away.

January 19, 2008 at 3:53 pm

Terri Watts

I agree w/you 110%
Break my heart goes out for Matthew who suffered for ci..

CI isn’t make you feel successful… *wha..a.. joke*
Matthew have his rights speak it out behind the truth about ci…
which it’s side effects?

I’m glad Matthew wearing his t-shirt “STOP CI” proven everyone really serious and not joke because already experience what he had through hell…

Expose to all the hospital and etc… whatever.. but hard to stop them (Doctor and audiologists) time to stop but won’t… Reason for business to have $$$$
Stupid Marketing instructional!

January 19, 2008 at 4:22 pm

Pamela Kane

Matt has a right to say NO to CI but it depend on the kind of doctor who did the surgery. I mayself became deaf at 15 yrs old after my hearing aid no longer helped me. I missed the sounds that I was used to. So I found out about CI was tested first to see if I was qualifity. I had this done 20 years ago. I am still wearing it TODAY!!!. I love my CI very much. It take time to practice to get use to the sounds. I can hear christmas songs. TV. and I can hear my parents voices on the Phone cuz I was used to their voice. I can say postive about CI I never had headaches, Or dizzness. I can go swimming and shower etc.. In fact I am ready for the new upgrade of the Freedom .. this would be my 3rd upgrades devices. It did not affect my life style with my deaf friends. They all respect me. I still use my sign language to commuicate. CI does not interfer my life at all I never had headaches. Thank God for that.
I can tell you that I am against parents who forces their babies young children to have CI I am against it. Parents and Doctors should wait till they are older and if they wanted the CI then go for it. But never never force anyone. I never tell anyone to go for CI they asked my opinon I tell them I love it but it is your life your decision I never recommend them to go for it. If they are interest then get more information. I am still wearing my CI today for 20 years now Praise the Lord!!

January 19, 2008 at 5:38 pm

patricia cleland

hi matt
i am understand of your story about cochlear imptants. i dont like to ci
i know never help with ci . i think of doctor and hospital loce $$$$$$$
i dont importand of ci. my doctor force to me on ci i say no no no. than i told i know about of ci not help i like stay with deaf. and i told to him i am very very happy of keep me is deaf thank of god than ci . love patty

January 19, 2008 at 7:40 pm

susan wolff

It is awful. It is not right that parents force kids to have CI at all. They should respect their wishes. I am very sorry about Matts experience on CI. He should sue the doctor. I never have CI and I will NOT have it. My parents who are deceased never force me to have it or asked me about it. Susan Wolff

January 19, 2008 at 8:59 pm

Jason A Hampton

I am a hearing student in ASL and from everything i have gathered on the subject of CI I have come to understand that the procedure can be rather traumatizig to a child especially one that is comfortable wit his/her deafnessand the beautiful culture that accompnies it. i beliee that the hearing community should not only stop trying to assimilate the deaf bu they shol embrce the deaf culture
consider this the iea of forcing a deaf child to have a CI is the equivalent of forcing a hering person or child to be deafened

January 19, 2008 at 10:06 pm

Loretta Rewald

Hi,
After I watching Matt”s story about CI. OH Brother, yes, I know How He felt about that because I went thru with CI myself. It was a bad experience for me.

In year of 2001 After my mother”s death and I went in hospital for CI surgery, during prepost surgery room {waiting to get into surgery room} and I felt something funny in my stomach and I decided to tell an interpeter to get nurse and wants to tell her that I want out of it and do not want to go thru surgery so she went and get My Doctor and he came in and said I will give you 5 minutes to think it over and I said I want to drop everything and he just left the room. my Husband insisted me to go thru with the surgery because He is getting tired of my complaining about tinnitus and vertgo since My doctor told me that the surgery will be 80 percent success and 20 percent not success and it will help mask tinnitus and vertigo so I just gave in and let it go. i feel in my guts that it wont be success so after surgery OH my goodness, it spinned and loud roaring ear ringing and felt the bandage around my head sooooo tight and dr told me that it will go away in about one week but it is not, it kept on going for months.. and almost considering commit suicide but I am so thankful my two dear cats saved my life.. and I went to my family doctor and complains about that situtions [ long story that I could have write in a book. so will make it short.] after I mentioned about commit suicide
to my family doctor and he said thats it. it needs to be removed and get another surgeon that I do not want to go back to that doctor who did put ci in first place. so anyways I went in hospital for another major surgery to remove the devices everything out from my ears… Now I am tinnitus suffer.
Two years ago I called Lawyer about that and He said it is too late because I
waited too long to file suit against the doctor.. so I will not give up to look for something to relief the tinnitus and some pains shooting up from where the inscison was… better stop talking about that or i will write a long story in the book haha..

Loretta

January 19, 2008 at 11:17 pm

IRENE CASEY

STRONGLY AGAINST ci… Behind the scene of ci is doctors and insurance. Why can’t insurance cover someone with a simple $500 hearing aid instead of $60,000 or so for a ci. That’s total insane!! Doctors get filthy rich from insurance… Bring up to leglislature and do something to avoid rip-offs!!!!

January 20, 2008 at 3:01 am

Craig Suchier

wow ,,,
I believe, what he use sign language, than speech,,, I am warning. Any
cochlear implant people can’t come to FLORIDA. cause your headachesss
because OF LIGHTING TOP OF THE WORLD POWERFUL… one of my friend can’t go outside . cause of it … I live in florida 45 years… not easy with that…

any question,,, Let me know…..

Craig

January 21, 2008 at 1:25 am

Kaytee

I totally understand about CI and the risk of it. I agree, that children should not have to go through dealing with it, having parents to make the choice on them. I am supportive to only adults making their own choice if they wanted to have CI, that’s fine. At least THEY decided it, not the children. However, I would have been okay IF the children were given a CHOICE. “You can hear, would you like to have CI? If not, that’s fine.”
My opinion has always been the same. For years I totally felt wrong for children having it, and the parents for making the choice. Does that mean, kids were not good enough being deaf?
And once we have been the way we are growing up, say, deafness, blind, wheelchair, it is what we are. It is who we are. Accept it. Be glad with us. At least, we are breathing, we are getting about and being a family that you always wanted.
Leave it to that.
I think that, now I am almost 27, if I EVER lost my hearing altogether down the road, I probably would apply for CI. Because I have two children I want to HEAR laughing, crying, talking, singing. Whatever. They are both hearing, btw…
Otherwise, choices should be given and made.. Not forced.

January 21, 2008 at 2:21 am

Brooke Budzinski

Sigh, I remember meeting Mat when I was in Highschool, I remember how angry Mat was when he had his CI, he have already expressed his feelings and frustrations about having CI. It was not easy for him eventhough for all of us because CI made him different and we (the non CI) had to look at him and wonder why he was forced to get CI by his parents’ decision and we all knew it was wrong for him to get one-That showed how Mat’s friends from WSD understood fully about his feeling and his frustrations with CI. CI does not help to fix Mat and be able to fit into hearing world, instead CI ruin Mat’s indenfity between Deaf and Hearing world. Mat’s parents should accept who Mat was and let him grow into deaf world eventhough mat already choose Deaf World path.

January 21, 2008 at 2:32 am

Mark

Matthew’s situtation is obviously unfortunate. However, be careful to assume that this is how it goes for every child who gets a CI. Thank you Bob for your posting your success with a CI.

I am a proud CODA as well as an audiolgist so Deafness has always been a part of my life. To see the look on a child’s face when they can hear sounds for the first time is amazing. Nobody is trying to ‘cure’ Deafness. Doctors are not out there to steal your money. What technology does is provides us an opportunity to give the brain access to sound. Had you been born blind and the doctors could perform a surgery to give you sight, would you not jump at the opportunity? The issue is not about cochlear implants. The issue is that it is yet another threat to a culture that seeks to continue its autonomy. It doesn’t have to be that way. A person can still embrace Deaf culture and form an identity in the hearing and Deaf world. You don’t have to be offended and reject somebody because they have an implant.

Now I know the biggest argument from the Deaf side is that a person should be able to choose to have an implant. Guess what…by the time a child is old enough to make that decision, its too late. We learn the basis of our language by the time we are 3 years old. The longer we wait to implant a child, the less the chance of success. So yes it is in the hands of the parents to make that decision for their child. And since 90% of babies born deaf have hearing parents, it is easy to understand why the Deaf society feels threatened.

I am not trying to offend any of you out there. I was raised in a Deaf culture and will pass that on to my children, whether they are hearing or deaf. But all I hear from the Deaf Culture is that Cochlear Implants turn people into robots and parents who dare choose an implant for their child are chastised by the Deaf community. Rather than rejecting cochlear implants, which most hearing people don’t understand anyways, accept it. Learn how to assimilate those with implants into your culture. Because we live in a rapidly advancing technological world. Who knows what will develop in the next 10, 20 or 30 years?

Educate yourselves on the positives of cochlear implants, not just the negatives that are passed along in gossip circles. Before you form such strong opinions, please understand there are also benefits to CI’s. And not just for those over 18 who were born hearing and then lost it.

To Matthew and others that suffered similar unfortunate experiences, my apologies. Being 14, however, was probably too old. This is case and point as to why it is best done before 3 years of age.

January 21, 2008 at 4:17 am

Edward

I disliked CI. Ci can destroy their identities,lives,and confusion easily. God created all human beings. I don’t support CI,I DO support DEAF people for their experiences which were suffered and get illnesses. My friend died of mentinisis thru CI. Young and adult deafs don’t please to have CI on their innocent heads. Now,my school supported CI. Screw my school. I enjoyed to view the issues about CI,discrimination,etc. Jack,I like you as my new friend and support your stories that helped the whole deaf world to know what the HELL going on around this damn USA! Don’t let the World screw the deaf for no reasons. Deaf are human beings,too. We do have a whole body. God provided us to use sign language. ASL is beautiful! I encourage you to keep going on and help the deaf to know and be aware of these wicked world today. Jeff,keep on deaf power for your website and barr communications. Rite on,JACKSEYES!!!!!!!!!!!! Oh,yeah! Hey,CI people are you ready to hear two words?? SUCK IT!!!!!

January 21, 2008 at 5:26 am

Jessie

I am proud of Mathew for standing up to himself in the end at 18 to decide to remove CI. It’s too bad that his parents dissaprove of it. Since he suffer Migraine he should bravely get it remove, then he will feel better again hopefully. Although I am one of the recovering CI. I wore it for my family and had it on for 3 years, very unhappy, the sounds is too upsetting and too loud it not the same as the Hearing Aid. I was born deaf in the left hear and severe hard of hearing on the right ear then suddeningly became deaf, my parent encourage me to get CI. I research it ask alot of Q’s then got CI then comes the nitemare. Got more severe migraine than before and dizzy spell, so remove it. And felt alot better. I am happier being deaf without CI, and I was brave enought to go into surgery again to remove it than to suffer daily. Mathew be strong and get your health back remove the CI you will feel better again. Pss Ci is not for everyone some can handle it and be happy and some cannot, and Mathew and I are one of them, also never ever let a deaf child undergo a major surgeries to get CI to become hearing all it does is to bring more hatred to a child than to let them be deaf and be happy and have sun shine on thier face to smile and sign ILY. Jessie

January 21, 2008 at 5:36 pm

DLK

Wow. Very sad story. I think we need to do something to bring our congressmen’s attention to make a new legislation to prohibit all parents, doctors and other professionals from trying to alter innocent deaf infants’ wishes. I have heard and seen enough of stories about CI patients’ horror experiences before this blog. Good job, Jack’s Eyes. I am sure any of these blogs would be useful to help convince lawmakers to form new law to protect innocent deaf/HH from being oppressed by hearing professionals and parents. Thanks for sharing with us.

January 22, 2008 at 3:07 am

Davy

Wow ….Jack’s Eye …… You have broke the highest number “2263” visits on this Vlog of “The Ugly Truth Of CI”. Please Put that up at Deafnewspaper.com ok keep spreading around the world. This is powerful message.

Davy

January 22, 2008 at 3:51 am

charlie carver

lot of deaf are talking about this serious problem but no action is taken it is best to get nad for the deaf and the law together if they will if not then some one should find a lawyer bring all the papers and that lawyer can take all the deaf cases all over usa and become the millionaire if he has any brains about what is right and wrong simple take act not talk crap

January 22, 2008 at 4:33 am

cory adkins

hello this is cory adkins and im 29 yrs old. when i was 14 years old n went to surgery to get ci and then after the healing, i had bad headache and also miagrianes everyday until now and i took ib to stop the pain but still get bad headache and it never stop so i m tired of headaches and miagraine everyday. im sick of it. i need to remove it. i want to sue the dr for causing me headache and miragraines.

January 22, 2008 at 5:09 am

ggm

hi i wonder have mr. flower sue doctor, school counselor, parents for push so hard on him while he was fourteen that s terrible. also other person who got ci should sue goverment and insurance.
i feel so sad for them

January 22, 2008 at 10:46 pm

Gaiane Villemaire

I let you know, I would like to sign up a subscibtion but it is failing that I clinked below to the left. Please add me in the mailing list. Thank you very much.
One of my church member who forced her son to have CI. I told my church interpreter that I disagreed that she wanted her son to become hearing world. God is not appriecate with her. I felt so sorry for her son.

January 22, 2008 at 11:08 pm

Marilyn Johnson (Sue)

I know cochlear implant is very ugly to do. I agree with you guys.
Don’t do that to be force to little confused children from their parents.
My 3rd husband had his both ears be cochlear implant himself.
I told him if I were you I wouldn’t do anything with CI. I’m glad
be myself is normal being deaf and wear hearing aid. I’m deaf
as I will accept who am I! I have 2 deaf children as they know
about CI and they did asked me if it will be worth. I told them
NO! Better you decide is at older age around 18 their own
decision and not by their parents. Whose body in one of the
children. Best for them is their choice to decide on their own.
Do they want or don’t want?? In my family that they have
good choice to decide by themselves.

January 23, 2008 at 12:29 am

april smith

i want sex education and i want learn more alot how learn so well myself enjoy dvd watch ok

January 23, 2008 at 12:33 am

Jelynn Louis

-Before I go on and say something. I would you first to know that I, myself have Cochlear Implant.

Continues:

To be utterly honest, I had some agreements and some disagreements
on what you said on your (blog)vlog. I agreed with you that it is not fair
for deaf children to force to get a CI by their hearing parents at such
young ages. However, not only hearing parents force their own children
to get CI. Believe it or not, there are FEW deaf people that force their
children to get CI as well. It may seem false and strange but its absolutely true. To be specific, maybe because that deaf person look at CI as”that so looks good” outside perspective and not realizing that the
doctor out there are making CI to turns deaf person into a hearing-like person (Also, I’d say most hearing parents are looking at THAT same perspective and not realizing too). Now that really makes deaf people absolutely upset and insulted, because to them its like these doctors are trying to get rid off deaf people and make the whole globe fill of hearing people. But understand this, most doctors out there have the HEART to help cure people. They just want to help. HOWEVER!! HOWEVER, they did not realize it upset deaf people because face this, they are not deaf themselves. They obviously, literally don’t understand the feeling of it. You may protect and say, “But some doctors knows anyway and they just do it anyway!!” Right. Some doctors knew it and that’s sad. I absolutely think that was wrong. The only specific doctor I’m against are the one who truely knew and understand how deaf people felt about CI and stubbornly ingore all these sues deaf people struggling try to stop CI. THAT’s the specific doctors I’m against. Am I clear here? This special person once said to me, “If you have a deaf children and said to you,’ Mommy why do you have this CI?’ “. This is BIG. To answer this question, I will tell them, “Mommy had no choice, she was so little and clueless and had to wear CI” Another thought might pop up in your head, “But you’re older now, why don’t you take it off?” One of the hardest question I’ve ever face. I believe, I use my CI for God’s purproses. Before you strongly disagree with me and leave. Understand this, I am a Christian myself and I believe having CI on me is to reach to non-Christian people who have CI and share them about God’s GOOD NEWS. I’m saying since I have CI and are under my parent’s authority to keep it on because I’m still young. I had no choice but to obey my mom. Since I had no choice, I told God I want to use CI for his purpose not for me or for my satisfication. If one of you totally disagree with what I recently said. Oh well I know it don’t matter to God because I know he LOVES all of me no matter what. And to you deaf people, I want you to understand that I’m sorry that you guys felt rejected because of the creation of CI. I really am.

January 23, 2008 at 2:32 am

Edwin

wow i am onlly 11 years old and both my parents are deaf. I saw this video from my dad and i realized that cochlear implants are the most stupid thing to do. Matthew is going through headaches and migraines, all because of the CI. I cant belive that the parents force their kids and even BABIES to get a cochlear implant. i think the children should choose for themselfs. We all know they would’nt want it after watching this video.

Please Comment back to my if you agree.

Edwin 🙂

January 23, 2008 at 10:25 am

Tracy Lenartz

I know him (WSD Alumi) I was a student at Wisconsin School for the Deaf for 4 years, not until I met Mat, one of his classmates, Johnboy Hartmann, he was the one who introuduced me to him when I first joined W.S.D. Mat visited his classmate, Johnboy to be with him for the weekend, and I met him in a bus on the way home from school. The two of us sat down with Mat and I pointed a finger to his head, so he explained to me about his CI, and I understood. I mean, Johnboy, Mat, and I discussed about CI, that’s maschist! Deaf people are not maschists! I mean, We are a human. We have feelings, okay? I mean, we are not worthless, we are worth more than you’ll ever know. I know it is so hard for you to understand. But at least try. Deaf people are very ‘gifted,’ and we have the right to say NO to impossible things and you need to think what’s the best for our feelings, not the other way around. I disagree … I mean, we have to grow up, not until we are 18 years old. We are older enough to make our decisions whether or not we want CI, not parents. Maybe we need to get up and speak up about important things, not until we are 18 years old. Do you know what I mean? Deaf children are innocent! So, think about it! But you know what? I have to applaud Mat for getting up and speaking up about important things about his experiences the way he explained to you on this video. I remember he told me about his experiences a long time ago. May the Lord be with you always!

~Tracy Lenartz (WSD ALUMI) You knew I am not a MASCHIST!!! (Sometimes, you want to be with the one who makes you laugh. Do you know what I mean? Remember me??? If you don’t remember me, ask your classmate, Johnboy!) I have to agree with you and Johnboy that deaf people are not maschists! I know that you are not a maschist, either! Mat’s experiences are not even funny, okay? So, think about it.

Mat is not a maschist!

January 23, 2008 at 6:08 pm

Jeffrey Cucinotta

I really applaud that Matthew Fowler and his family to be brave to involved blog/vblog because many of CI people are afraid to show and express their feeling about CI. Wow! it really scared to do that. I can feel his pain and suffer as I felt that way.
I think Matthew should file against CI that didn’t do good job in past.. Also I applaud Jack’s eye to encourage people or parent to not force children who couldn’t make the decision. It is a gift that God bless every children and adult who become deaf and be happy! That is for the world that everyone accept who you are and what you are! We(deaf) are not their robot or magical or miracle happen.. They should let it happen and leave what we are!
Again, Matthew and Heather Fowler and your family, I applaud for your bravery and encourage people to do not force.. We will always support you and your family!
Jack’s eye, congrautation for sucessful the story!

January 23, 2008 at 7:37 pm

toni

its really encouring of you letting the world of deaf people know now there nowdays cl is really dangerous… but for your information when i was 19 my parents were telling me about ci plant which i told them its my decision that i dont want it. and they accept it right away, so they didnt force me anything.. im glad and im proud of the way i am. well god made people that way. so keep it update and i hope they will let thier parents know how they feel about thier children before they get thier cl plant. i heard it didnt really work at all so all dr and others just want to make thier own b.s business to run and make them real a scam. its really wrong. but im glad everyone believes whats going on.
Remmy. I like the way who i am. my son accept who i am today.
i thanked for that…

January 23, 2008 at 8:27 pm

chris morris

Thank god i dont have CI!!! I am not surprised that CI is a giant waste of people taxpayer money, yet they hinder it and attempt to get ” high ratings” to get many deafies to have CI, yet they hinder the truth in the side effects of CI, and play the ” blind game” on how wonderful it is but it is not.
for expmaple if you married someone you must accept them for who they are unconditionally, no reason to change them to satifity the others.. that is not right attitude!
I am glad that jack eye is pitching in and asking more hardcore facts of video clips of the unraveling truth on the CI from people all over and try to STOP this epidemic spreadings and let us be deaf, as God create us to be, and it comes with a purpose for us to be deaf PERIOD!!!
KEEP UP THE GOOD FIGHT JACK EYE!!!!

January 24, 2008 at 8:50 am

dont be bias!

Unfortunately, Matthew Fowler had it with primitive technology and primitive type of surgery.
For those whom obtain Ci 2004 and thereafter will see better results. Babies with 3 years old and younger will do well as hearing children. Adults will take a long transition to relearn new sounds, etc. Our child had a Ci when he was 2 and it was only less than inch incision behind the ear…On the day, he was playful and went swimming. That’s bold! Before we went home, it was turned on and he loves it. Then we got another one year later.
His speaking level has caught up to his peer level, amazing! He hears everything and the word you say without him looking at you, he understood it.
You tell me, why you people keep protesting when the Ci is working and FDA has approved this type of method? Our son has proved his case and so others, too, then you cannot argue this.
This is not about DEAF Pride. This is about giving opportunity so they can hear just like hearing aids that doesn’t bother you. Ci is no different than wearing a hearing aids…just a different power, that’s all.
It looks bad on Deaf Culture when you keep on protesting against Ci that actually works. It’s going to kill Deaf Culture because you cannot live in an illusion. Trust me, we use ASL and our kid is bi lingual. We’re culturally deaf, too.
Do your homework before you make the case. Like I said, unfortunately for those whom had ci before 2004 with 8 channels, etc. I do not approve then but this is now, I do approve it. Wife is getting one and I’m getting one because we have witnessed the success rate on current Ci users.

January 24, 2008 at 8:58 am

dont be bias!

Also, investigate all the current Ci users started from 2004 then you will know the answer. You’d be surprised how well these kids are doing these days. 80% of deaf babies now are implanting Ci annually this year. What does it mean with 20% deaf babies? Do your math in marketing terms…Today, 20% deaf is not implanted with Ci and in 20 years from now…the deaf population in the age of 20 year old is 20% less than current 20 year old population. The answer is, deaf community will be 80 times smaller than it is today.
If we accept and educate ASL and help each other then it may help to save our culture or we will be just like the indians.

January 24, 2008 at 8:34 pm

Nancy/Herman Fletcher

He ought to sue his parents and that idiot doctor……..More problems will come.

January 25, 2008 at 12:29 am

Travis Johnson

Matt is my best friend Know him for 23 years!!! I Have C.I. too. Sad! We have fought for many years. We knew its not worth it, We pray for all Deaf people for not put C.I. Not worth it. We really hope all USA deaf understand! We warning ya’ll. We will find out how we can change it. We thank Jack for support us and you too!!!!! Travis

January 25, 2008 at 1:48 am

Open Minds

Unfortunately sounds like Matt had very bad experience. Keep open mind not everyone has bad experience. CI is good for some people and not good for others. I agree he should have been able to decide for himself at the age of 14, but please do not judge the CI on all bad experiences others have. It is a personal decision for every individual. Also keep in mind not all hearing think bad about deaf. We are all people no matter blind, deaf, mute, cripple or anything. Bad experiences in life are just that.. a bad experience. It does not mean everytime it is bad. That is being judgemental. Facts are good, opinions are exactly that…opinions.

January 25, 2008 at 1:08 pm

Thanks for sharing…very good detailed of his bad experience with surgery and afterwards. I am wondering if you can question his parents regarding his CI–before and after and put in video…if parents realize mistakes by forcing him to have CI, it should help fighting for children/babies and deaf’s rights by showing video/discussions with parents. I could feel Matt’s pains and frustrations. May God comforts his pains in his powerful hands!! Looking forward more to come!

January 25, 2008 at 3:50 pm

Deaf Advocate

My response to “Don’t be bias!” comment:

I wanted to say first that I respect and value your perspective towards CI. I have read your comment a few times for a few days to fully analyze the underlying meaning of it. As result, my heart mourns for the Deaf community because our deaf brothers and sisters are giving in to the hearing “colonialism” of the deaf community. Some of your comments with my follow up comment prove this:

1. Your comment: “Today, 20% deaf is not implanted with Ci and in 20 years from now…the deaf population in the age of 20 year old is 20% less than current 20 year old population. The answer is, deaf community will be 80 times smaller than it is today.”

My comment: True, more deaf kids receive implants because approximately 90% of them are born to hearing parents and most of those parents are not made aware of ALL options for communication for the Deaf. I’m from third generation Deaf family including relatives and we are all successful in different ways even though we use ASL without any CI or oral communication. My deaf brother had a deaf friend who has CI at age of approximately 7 years old. Right now, his friend is 22, is isolated, and socially awkward when attending deaf community events. My brother is slowly bringing him into the Deaf community and help him develop a healthy self-identity again.

2. Your comment: “FDA has approved this type of method? Our son has proved his case and so others, too, then you cannot argue this.”

My comment: As most of us noticed by now, FDA’s seal of approval doesn’t mean much nowadays because many FDA approved medicines have been recalled or banned after it was discovered that those medicines caused health problems or bad side effects. Has FDA kept a close eye on the language and cultural consequences of CI? No, it is their duty to make sure CI is minimally safe enough to meet their requirements, that’s it.

2. Your comment: “If we accept and educate ASL and help each other then it may help to save our culture or we will be just like the indians.”

My comment: How can we accept and educate ASL if professionals working with CI strictly promotes the use of AVT method with NO use of ASL??? Giving in to the “colonialism” will allow us to become indians. I strongly encourage you to read Paddy Ladd’s Deafhood book to fully understand what our Deaf community is going through.

Live Long Deaf Community!

January 25, 2008 at 6:55 pm

Mark

Thank you to “Dont be Bias” for your experience. You have a good knowledge of the facts of CI’s.

There is so much hatred and propaganda spread through the Deaf community about cochlear implants. I realize it is a very emotional subject. The hearing community is chastised for not researching and understanding the Deaf point of view. However, i have met few Deaf that fully understand what cochlear implants can do, why they are done, and who they are meant for.

You dont have to agree with cochlear implants, but please take the time to learn more about them.

January 25, 2008 at 10:09 pm

Jelynn Louis

I agreed with Open Minds’ comment.

January 29, 2008 at 5:20 pm

Brenda Vaughn

It’s real so sad to see matthew’s suffer long enough to made living miserable and not able to get well, he should give other chance to get other specific surgery to remove off and getting back his health to focus and have good life to be healthly-mental-physcial-strength-spirit-joy-bounce where his life could be a chance….I can’t remember how old I was almost alike matthew for cochlear implants but now I’m 48 yrs old and wear hearing aids all my life…I know funny things to change my minds to drop surgery if this risk that would help my hearing back? I was born deaf then go to special oral school to learn how reading lips w/voice till age 9 to transfer to ky school for the deaf to learn how used sign lanuage and feel strange confusion who I was to choice hearing or deaf around the peoples but I accept the way God’s made us the way born w/deaf also I’ve deaf brother too..I’ve seen many parents to keep avoid the children who the deaf and gave away or won’t allow the children to deaf school which they keep them to oral or public school, no one can’t understand why every parent won’t allow them to deaf school that very cruel where every children need to learn how to get know where the life to grow up….I do hate many of hearing peoples does think that deaf can’t do anything to deaf school nobody perfect on the earth whether deaf or hearing or handicap or what else,,they need learn what the mean deaf children as many parent dislike deaf children that how focus them to place with coclear implants and made them alike parents could same time hearing but they never understand what deaf children’s feel not parent’s decision that deaf children’s own body not parent’s body that derrible things to seen many of them happened with deaf children to grow up frustrate,,,I’ve enough to learn something and I hope matthew to get chance other surgery to get back his health well may God bless him to heal and start get a better life to focus on strength…it’s awesome I’ve ever seen ur all comment it’s super good story to tell all children to grandchildren’s future to need stop and agree to accept we all the deaf not important with cochlear implants and save for the good health’s strength……..wish u matthew get well for good and may the lord be with u……….

February 1, 2008 at 1:04 am

Dave

This was quite an interesting post. I’m a first-year student learning ASL from the Signing Naturally Curriculum Level 1 being taught at my university. One day I hope to take an interpreter course and go on to medical school to become a doctor. I didn’t understand most of what was said, but the most important part came through.

Cochlear Implant == BAD

I have a friend who had the CI. She was born hearing, but lost her hearing to meningitis. When she was young, she got the CI, probably against her will (I’ll have to ask her about that). It did absolutely nothing at all for her. All it did was give her horrible migraines, dizziness, and other horrid illnesses that have been a burden on her throughout her whole life. She stopped using the device, but the implant was still there. The last time we spoke, she was having hers surgically removed. So far as I know, many of her CI problems have stopped but she still gets the occasional migraine and illness.

Companies make these devices, then they want to sell them. They market them to doctors with skewed evidence and clever pay-offs (sometimes the doctor doesn’t even know he/she is being bought). Then, when someone goes in, the doctor thinks of the CI and pushes for an implant. It’s just plain wrong. It happens with all kinds of medications. Do they have a direct-to-consumer marketing strategy for CI devices as well? It’s sick that the medical profession is so littered with money-lusting jerks who medicate healthy people to make a buck. I agree that it needs to stop. If it takes a public display protest to get these things to stop, do it. If it takes a class action lawsuit, do it.

Matthew, if you’re reading this, please know that your story has reached people who are now outraged at the atrocities of the CI and the medical profession’s bias toward hearing. You have my best wishes for the future, for you and your wife (and any children you may have as well).

February 6, 2008 at 1:08 am

trina seiber

There are lots of parents who wants their children to hear and thinking it will make things easier on their lives if their children are hearing, however those who are profoundly deaf, and lives in the deaf world and they chose to keep it that way should becuase its what they’re used to but for those who are very oral and socialize with the hearing world may have different issues. I myself am profoundly deaf but socialize in the hearing world and talk like one and very oral, i like to hear things and the most i love to hear is music and such but its very frustrating when i have the ability to do things like the hearing people do but the deafness is constantly in my way and its not acceptable for me so i would opt for ci for my own reasons and no one else’s reasons thats fine but others forcing those to get one is out of line. everyone should research and look for pros and cons and be sure the surgian is doing the proper job and ask them to show their patients who has had the ci surguries and be the judge of that if you don’t like his work then look for others that suits your needs. thats my opinion. those who complains that its a waste of money if those decides to not use the equipments afterwards, then its their loss for not listening.. since its their cause and effects from their actions and decisions. i hope those who has read this comment would agree on that statement there. its their fault. good luck..

February 6, 2008 at 10:08 pm

Robert Coker

Hi, I have heard lots of complaints about C.I. I am against it. It will cause lots of health problems like headaches, migraines, dizziness, and some horrible illiness. This also causes them having Alzheimer’s Disease in the future. God is NOT pleased with it. He created the human being. The hearing aids are cheaper than horrible C.I. Doctors are advancing money from insurance and government. We have to stop it. If they aren’t happy with C.I., they could sue their parents, doctors, whoever forced to have C.I. Too bad for them. I wish someone who knows how to prepare a letter to the congressman. I prayed God to stop it. I hope to hear about it soon.

February 14, 2008 at 5:25 am

powchutu

CONT…

MARK THE CODA AND AN AUDIOLOGIST…

“To see the look on a child’s face when they can hear sounds for the first time is amazing”

OF COURSE, THESE CHILDREN – VERY YOUNG HAS NO CLUE WHAT DEAF CULTURE IS YET!!!!

BEING OPENED UP UNDER THE KNIVES- LIKE LAB RATS IS – COME ON!!! UTTERLY DISGUSTING – NOBODY CAN CHANGE OUR MINDS HOW GOOD CI IS.

WHATS UP WITH THE RACE? WHY TRYING SO HARD TO GET KIDS SOOOO SMART RIGHT AWAY? THEY WILL BE ALRIGHT IF THEY GET YOUR RESPECT AND LOVE!

HOWEVER, THOSE WHO ARE OLD ENOUGH TO UNDERSTAND -WANTING CI, WE SURELY RESPECT THAT & HOPE FOR THEIR BEST.

IF PARENTS GIVE THIER BABIES A CHANCE TO SEE what BEAUTY DEAF CULTURE IS FIRST,
IF THEY END UP THEY’RE WANTING COCHLEAR IMPLANTS -THEY THEN SHOULD GET IT DONE BECAUSE THEY UNDERSTAND AND WANTS THAT KIND OF LIFE IN THEIR FUTURE.

IF THEY DECIDE NOT TO, THEN AT LEAST DOCTORS AND PARENTS SHOULD LEAVE THEM ALONE!

Now both add…
“YOU ALL SHOULD EDUCATE YOURSELVES OR DO YOUR HOME WORK”
THIS COMMENT SHOULD’VE NOT BEEN BROUGHT UP – MOST OF US ARE AWARE WHAT CI IS!

Speaking for our rights does not look bad to the Deaf = we mean what we mean. We grew up as we are and we’re loving it every minute!

Every cultural will vanish… in time, but not while we’re living!!!!!

February 14, 2008 at 5:37 am

powchutu

THIS HERE SHOULD BE BEFORE THE CONT. COMMENT…

TO THE “DONT BE BIAS” FOLKS…

“Our child had a Ci when he was 2 and it was only less than inch incision behind the ear”

THEN

“Wife is getting one and I’m getting one because we have witnessed the success rate on current Ci users.”

THIS IS AN EXAMPLE OF THE DISGUSTING ACTION THAT MAKES US SICK… PARENTS THROW THIER BABIES ON THE GURNEY TO THE OPERATING ROOM UNDER THE KNIVES LIKE LAB RATS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
BEFORE THE PARENTS GET TO TRY IT OUT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

UNDERSTAND???????????????????????????????????????????

HEY DEAF ADVOCATE…
‘VISUAL APPLAUSE’ (HANDS WAVING IN THE AIR INSTEAD OF CLAPPING) GOES TO YOU FOR YOUR COMMENTS!

March 9, 2008 at 5:49 pm

maritza

wow i heard about matthew tell us about his life make me sad thank god matthew explained to everyone what is going on show hearing parents to see it and learn from him before hearing parents put thier deaf kids not too late!! also i heard so awful about younger name katie 7 years old she died from ci cause her head hurt so awful same matthew have been thur you should remove your ci out see what happen to katie poor her my feel her mother is so guitly what she done to her own daugther death !! broke my heart why not show hearing people world to see what happen about ci people become sick and not feel well that kill them not safe let them know and view make them realize dont let thier deaf children put thier ear ci not safe i dont want to see hearing parents lost of children beacuse of ci think about it thank matthew sharing with all of them one more same i remmy when i were younger my aunt family and my parents came to me ” guess what about new ci explained to me what look alike you will can hear all world great can you try ? i look up my family what i answer ” no thank you ” they are so surprised ask me ” why not” i answer them ” i accpet it who i am and god gift me where my mom give me birth as human god gift me i accept it ” my family respect me my wish they accept me who i am why same with hearing people should respect deaf child s wish beacuse deaf child cant speak and dont know what is that thier hearts wish not parents heart wish not thiers its deaf s heart belong to thier heart hearing parents must understand and accpet it same me and my husband are deaf and our two hearing kids we accpet it beacuse ours kid blood as human why not do same with hearing accept it deaf respect i hope people will woke up and look at childrens eye feeling and fear

March 9, 2008 at 6:15 pm

maritza

hi again i have been think and found why not counselor who work with help deaf s feeling what deaf children what not parents what want or dr both force i think counselor will test on deaf s feeling ” do you really want become ci or keep your ear as deaf what deaf children answer thier heart if deaf child answer ” no ” i dont want become ci my parents push me and dr push me i dont feel right i need your help so counselor will explain to parents how thier deaf child feeling like dont force i think parents should send deaf my option law should set new counselor for deaf children about ci before parents and doctor force them also school teacher can help deaf children how thier feel what they s feeling dont want ci then they must explain to parents like parents meeting about deaf children “S feeling make them understand and respect deaf children s feeling that mean parents cant force or dont touch beacuse deaf have the right say no also counselor will watch what deaf child talk to parents s feeling like ” mom and dad i dont want ci my answer no so counselor will tell parents respcet deaf maybe parents will back off its work ? its help beacuse of abuse mostly counselor always help children s feeling why not set about ci how deaf s feeling ? will help hearing parents see it and realize before both put them ci without thier feeling hurt what do you think ? for me i think new law should send counselor help parents to understand also mother have babay birth counselor can visit her and explain to parents how feel beacuse baby cant speak cuz of baby born but explain to parents understand about ” risk” like learn class about deaf s life why not

April 4, 2008 at 11:02 am

Daneen

Hello! Whoever read my comments ..hope this is my opinion and feeling why I have always been against C.I. I have been profound deaf all my life !When I heard about the CI about 15 years ago I knew I didn’t like it right away and defend it not to accepted it. I know we as the Deaf world always stays strong the feeling we have is Deaf Pride of who we are. I have experienced from the hearing people and some friends that tell me “why not ” for me to have C.I and they thinks it was wonderful. And yet I said to them ‘no and it’s not!” So many reasons I had to say to them. Then come with my husband of 27 years . He thought it was cool when he heard about the C.I. but he knew I wil never accepted it. But he accepted me and my feeling of who I am and loves me. I have heard and met some of the C.I . people .They said they are not happy with it and put it away. I didn’t say anything to them because let them learned and feels their experienced. Some said like it . Now here I am find on this website of Jack’s eyes. I ‘ve learned so much more from the person who share their testimony and videos. It’s makes me sad and makes me angry for the hearing parents and people who put their high hopes on the deaf. I ‘ve always knew the hearing people should not look down to the deaf people and think they deaf are the bottom and hearing people are the head . I always beleive in my heart my soul and my mind that God created them of who they are included me. I am happy for who I am ! I do wears hearing aid daily and I always happy and my choice I can take it off and on when I want to. iImostly thank my hearing parents for me they never gve up on me. We had a good life and spend time with me. I wentto deaf school and I am thankful for that. Until now I have seen and heard how sad that some of the deaf schools are not for the deaf students anymore. So we as the Deaf people need to stand up and fight and let the hearing world know who we are. And tot he CI programs they need to STOP it! So to the deaf people.. stays strong and keep beleiveing who you are. My favorite sign”DEAF POWER” :-)Hey deafies..if you wan tot keep in touch with me.. my emial is DANEENLB@hotmail.com 🙂

April 4, 2008 at 3:16 pm

Daneen

Oh here I am again. I forgot to mention it about Mathew Folwer. I really felt bad for him when I listened and watched of his testimony . How painful and how he have been through so much in his life!This must be very hard for him from is age 14 to adult. I know how foolish the CI programs putting up their high expectation on the deaf people. Hearing world need to remember the world is not a PERFECT place to live and there’s no perfect human being either! Hearing people may thinks deaf are dumb and stupiditly but we are NOT ! We can do things like hearing people do. They should not worrying about the deafness because they want the deaf people to be perfect like normal hearing people do. OH PLEASE!
To the heairng people and the CI programs … how do you feels you have to be deaf and force to learn ASL? Then leave the deaf people ALONE!
Deafies… stand up and be strong of who are.:-)

April 4, 2008 at 3:27 pm

Daneen

To Joey Baer, I agree with you 100 percent that deaf is BEAUTIFUL! It ‘s a gift from GOD! God had His purpose for he person who are deaf so the deaf people can share to other deaf people about God. I have been a Christian and I know the Lord. Bless you and God bless the deaf!:-)
~Daneen

April 5, 2008 at 2:06 pm

Daneen

To mark. I ‘ve read your comment. I still disagrees what you said about the drs are not steal your money. Can’t you see drs out there don’t cares about the child and adults of any ages ..they just want the child to be PERFECT like a hearing world.? Can’t you see they just don’t want the child ‘s identiy!?Can’t you see they don’t want deaf people to use the sign languages.? All they just want this world are for HEARING WORLD only. God didn’t created the world for perfect human being. God created the deaf who they are and included me. I have been against CI for years. I have been profound deaf all my life and I will be 50 yrs old and look here I am through all my life and I am fine! Why should they worries about the deaf people ? Leave them alone! They will growing up and be fine all is well with them . God has a reason to created them to be deaf because He knows who will be. DEAF people are beatuful in His sight! Not drs. Having surgery and put CI in my brain makes me feel like they are controlling them like a robot! sign lanuages IS ASBOUTLEY BEAUTIFUL! You can choose when to wear a hearing aid anytime and when you are ready for bed and you can take it off ..peaceful sleep! CI ..you can’t ! I also feels like deaf people are the victims and it sure is and they drs who ever they are don’t understands what is like to be a deaf themselvies. Being deafness is no big deal to worry about it ;s just a ear . I am so glad I have 80 percents eyeisght that are more improtant than ears. They need to STOP and leave the DEAF alone! DRS can make mistakes and they are not 100 percents intgellient! How ignorant they tried to push awya the deaf wold!
-Daneen

May 1, 2008 at 11:40 pm

Telina Johnson

i have one coclear implants when i was 14 years old had surgery and i dislike it because of i had a bad 19 piles cars wreckage in austin tx. i was front.. i was near died … because of bleed in my head with coclear implant and i cannot have MRI .. which makes me pissed off… i was dispointment with my head.. i have suffer with headaches and my arm is not working good since wreck terrible… oh well.. anyone question about coclear implants i am happy to explain to yall about wreck ( stuck without MRI ) what if i have tumor??? what is dangerous …

May 4, 2008 at 2:51 pm

Daneen

Hi Telina. I feel bad for you. I know how dangerous the CI have been and for the people . I still have been against CI. You know why don’t you go to have your CI remove? Why not? You still have your choic what you want. 🙂 You know about Mathew Fowler.. there’s the new video that he already had his CI removed. If you wan tot see the new vido .. let me know I can send it forward to you. Ci is very dangerous to the healthy people because they just wanted MONEY! They don’t care aobut the deaf people. May I ask you did you want to have CI or your parents forced you of their high expection? If they did to you.. they are wrong! You may searching it up and conact the hosptial who would helping you to remove your CI in your head. 🙂 It’s up to you .. cause I can’t make you but I am just suggestion you that’s all. Keep in touch , Telina.

May 17, 2008 at 4:10 pm

taximnjim

Funny I have a cochlear implant have had one now going on five years reading some of the comments about so called child abuse…Come on give it up deaf people firing people for not being deaf enough..deaf culture????what the hell is that?
Another way of keeping people ignorant?
I am deaf not by choice but by profound deafness we if you do not know live in a hearing world with sounds music and other things…I realize also that not all deaf people can have cochlear implants but to decide for child not to get one you hold the hope for that very child to grow into a well rounded individual with all the opportunitys avail to that child
Holding them down by scare unfounded tactics only goes to show you how pathetic most of the deaf world reacts
I work as an advocate for coclear implantation for people who need them…I realize also that people who have been brought up using sign language as their only way of communication are not very reliable candidates for cochlear implant why because they donn’t give them a chance to work…Cochlear implant is not a miracle by any means but it does give people an opportunity especially young children a chance at hearing in the hearing world…
What worrys me more is unwarranted actions committed by some people cause unfounded reaction from many others….
I have seen children as young as two years of age be able to hear and learn and listen comprehend sounds and comprehend language and have little or no speech problems…
What fears the deaf culture even more is the inability to accept other means of learning to hear again….I do and never have worn my deafness on my sleeve always seeking a better understanding always trying to do better through technologies that help me understand words and phraises…No it will never be the same as hearing but it is a great advantage over being deaf any day of the week..That is for sure….
I have heard unfounded lies to boast a community that trys so desperate to create havoc on peoplelike myself….I hope in the future with more technologies more understanding of the human ear that there will be a day deafness could be litteraly wiped out….that would be the greatness to come…Not now but soon….
Sincerely yours,
V Jimmie Sorrento Jr..
past vice president of B uffalo I mplant G roup
Buffalo new york
aka taximnjim@yahoo.com
also a standing member in local HLAA and national member also.

May 30, 2008 at 11:55 pm

Daneen

To taximnjim ,
I read what you comments about. But we as the deaf world should be always keep that way for years. I am not against a person who have C.I. I am just against these CI . There’s nothing wrong to be a deaf person and nothing wrong if I can’t hear or speak well. We as the deaf people should be proud whoever they are Deaf. I have been deaf all my life since 2 yrs old and today I am 49 years old and still happy person myself. I love to being a deaf and proud of it. I do wears hearing aid and it’s good enough for me. The reason of how some Deaf people feels to stays strong as a Deaf Power and not to vanishes then this world is perfect for hearing people. Aren’t you should be the one to be proud of who you are that you are a deaf person? Eyes are more better in sighting than hearing. Be happy!

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