document.write("<script language=\"javascript1.2\" type=\"text/javascript\">function emo_pop() {window.open('http://www.haloscan.com/commenthelp.php','Help','width=200,height=360,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes');}</script><table width=\"97%\" align=\"center\" cellpadding=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" border=\"0\" class=\"MainTable\">  <tr>    <td>    <div align=\"center\">    </div>    </td>  </tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127504\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=6c857c10493d3a6d70040977ff1de3e8&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Jennifer,<br><br>You are a wonderful person.  So caring and outgoing.  I want you to know that you are NOT disappointing and you are an AWESOME woman!!!!  As you have said you have to do what works for YOU.  I remember you saying on Hearing Journey once that no two peoples hearing experiences are alike.  What works for one person may not work for another.  Even if this new stragey dosent work out, you are still amazing and you shouldn't have to fight to make it work if it's not in the Lord's plans.  I know that you probally dont remember me, but you have really made an impact in my family's life.  From reading your blog to talking to you on hearing journey.  I really pray this new stratagy works for you, but if it dosent I will pray that the Lord gives you peace about His will.<br><br>Love,<br>Bobbi<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Bobbi Newburn | 07.14.09 - 11:50 pm | <a href=\"#127504\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127505\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=29aab522bf2e1d27a8ff128e5365adcc&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Hi Jennifer<br>Thanks for sharing your heart and soul with us!!  I for one only hear with one ear and with CIS.  The nice thing about AB is that there ARE other programs - they are not just slower but they are different as each of us are different.  Maybe that ear needs a different programming strategy.  Maybe that ear nerve gets overwhelmed with too much information.  Regardless - you will never know until you try - and AB provides options so use them  <img src=\"http://www.haloscan.com/images/smileys/content.gif\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" width=\"15\" height=\"15\" />  As a happy CIS One ear user - I say take your time in the change to a new strategy as change can take time to adapt to.  <br><br>I love AB - and the things that they offer.  But also the people at AB and the response that you received sums that right up!  AB cares and will be there for you - each of us are unique and we have a special story to share.  AB has provided many different speech strategies to allow us to hear and be heard!! <br><br>Kim<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Kim | 07.15.09 - 12:42 am | <a href=\"#127505\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127511\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=14186091b317a7d30ab8f4c71a0f9dfd&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Jennifer,<br><br>What a wonderful post...everyone has a different journey and purpose in life.  And like a fingerprint, no one journey is the same or the right one.<br><br>I was thinking about you yesterday as I watched butterflies in my garden and was remembering the time we met almost three years ago.  You looked at me with questions and HOPE about hearing again.  I have prayed for you and have only wanted the best for you.<br><br>And like I've said before, this whole experience has CHANGED you....and you are making a HUGE difference in the lives of people you come in contact with.  <br><br>And if you run out of options, you can have peace knowing that you tried EVERYTHING.  And like your friends have said, your experience is valuable, whether you hear with one or two ears with your CI. <br><br>I love you and am so proud of you. And, you really do have SURROUND SOUND, because you are SURROUNDED by the sounds of LOVE from your family and friends!<br><br>Hugs!<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Laurie Pullins | <a href=\"http://lauriescidance.blogspot.com\" title=\"http://lauriescidance.blogspot.com\">Homepage</a> | 07.15.09 - 5:56 am | <a href=\"#127511\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127512\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=f16db016613657d0556ce40d0100d94a&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Jennifer, you will still be surrounded by sound -- it may just come in through 1 processor!<br><br>I can't tell you what and inspiration it was to talk with you and Abbie in person this weekend, after such a long time watching your story unfold from afar.  I know we didn't get too terribly far beyond the basic 'nice to meetcha' and goofing around with the kids on the surface, but making that connection feels like so much more to me.<br><br>I think this sort of experience you describe, hard as it is, is exactly what e need to hear about, and what makes you such a perfect, understanding representative for amazing technology that can sometimes be really, really hard to match up just right with our even more amazing brains.  <br><br>I notice, increasingly, that Li-Li sometimes finds massive walls of sound (like TV, music played through speakers) to be \"too loud\" with both ears on, that she seems to tune out sound altogether or seem unusually distracted when we're in a large crowd with a lot of various input, which I've ascribed to just being 3 and having no ability to pay attention to mama, and you've just given me something tangible to talk with our audiologist about.  <br><br>I think you are just wonderful, and I look forward to reading about how this new strategy works out -- or not.  Either way, your experiences are so valuable.  Besides, I think you're surrounded by much more than just sound:  sending much love (and a great big 3YO's hug) from way up here.<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Li-Li's Mom | <a href=\"http://grendelskitchen.com\" title=\"http://grendelskitchen.com\">Homepage</a> | 07.15.09 - 6:09 am | <a href=\"#127512\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127514\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=77601e39d1cd931883cd32bcfc1ca167&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Dear Jennifer,<br>Thank you so much for sharing and opening your heart to all of us. You know how much I value your insight.<br><br>Just as Laurie said, each journey is different. You can't compare your journey to other CI users, just as I can't compare Christian to any other CI kid (or any other kid for that matter) out there. What works for one person, may not work for the other. I think what you deal with as a user and I deal with as a parent of a CI user is that there is NO blueprint, no map of telling us what road is the right road to chose. We create our own roads to ultimately get to our shared final destination: Our Best Hearing that we can get in our situation.<br><br>What is most important is that you have found the peace that you so very much deserve. You are such a beautiful person, full of God's Grace. You've touched SO many people's lives. One ear, two ears, it's all the same when you have a heart full of love as you do!<br>xoxoxoxox<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Christina Marmor | <a href=\"http://www.livelaughlovefamily.blogspot.com\" title=\"http://www.livelaughlovefamily.blogspot.com\">Homepage</a> | 07.15.09 - 7:32 am | <a href=\"#127514\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127515\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=a4e9fcc8374a2aed885be0df80ac85a2&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Jennifer,<br><br>This is such a beautiful post!  <br><br>Thank you for sharing so much of yourself.  Your insight is invaluable.  I cannot imagine your ability to advocate and educate will be diminished in the least if you are not bilateral.  If anything, you'll have even more to share.  You have been through so much and have learned more than the average user.  And your honesty will bring trust from people who might be skeptical.<br><br>Thanks again, Jennifer!<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Mom to Toes | <a href=\"http://www.momtotoes.blogspot.com\" title=\"http://www.momtotoes.blogspot.com\">Homepage</a> | 07.15.09 - 7:41 am | <a href=\"#127515\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127519\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=448639e14eccf4880c04c5bcc273e7ec&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Jen,<br>If anyone can make a grown man cry, you have done just that.  I am having a very difficult time trying to find the right words but that was probably the most open \"from the heart\" post I have ever read.<br><br>You are an inspiration to all of us. Not because you are a bi-lateral CI user but because you are a person with a very big heart - bigger than anyone can ever imagine, bigger than the universe.  For you to share your ups and downs as you progress through the two years I've known you takes a lot of courage.  You have taught me a lot not just about CIs but also about life.<br><br>I am not going to preach the 3 Ps nor am I going to give you the whole \"Quitting is not an Option\" analogy.  But please do know it that the imprint you have left in all of our lives is one that remains with us...forever and ever!<br>Sam<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Sam Spritzer | <a href=\"http://samspritzer.com\" title=\"http://samspritzer.com\">Homepage</a> | 07.15.09 - 8:43 am | <a href=\"#127519\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127521\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=b3b3698adf194fc0176e5e55fd4d7708&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Thanks for sharing your story. I was amazed to read that bilateral sometimes doesn't work equally for both ears...it almost sounds as if each ear has its own brain neural path ways and that if one ear has been deaf all along, it wouldn't have the brain mappings that the other, better ear does? <br><br>Reasoning would tell me that it would be a problem of the devices, not the brain. So much that we don't know...<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Dianrez | <a href=\"http://www.xanga.com/dianrez\" title=\"http://www.xanga.com/dianrez\">Homepage</a> | 07.15.09 - 9:19 am | <a href=\"#127521\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127524\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=d8a8ac5166aac50748182999dadf4fde&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Perfect blog entry Jen! You have made the right decision for \"YOU\" and I know that you hear very well with one CI, your November '07 one.  I have been with you and watched how that is your hearing ear and there is no doubt that you now have the freedom to enjoy all the benefits from one CI.  <br><br>I am proud of you for many reasons and one is that because of your transparency there will be people who can truly relate to your experience. You will gain far more from your decision than you realize right now. Each of us with CI's has our own hearing journey, we are not stamped out in a \"cookie cutter\" fashion.  <br><br>I love you Jen, thank you for sharing with everyone.  Now you can truly be the beautiful butterfly we all know and love.<br><br>Evelyn<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Evelyn | 07.15.09 - 10:08 am | <a href=\"#127524\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127536\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=ec52490db0df1aeb6b794460bf45c47d&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Tears in my eyes, Jen!<br><br>What is right for you is right for you! It is the process of getting to the point which you have reached that makes you you!<br>I have tremendous respect for you and the effort you have put into hearing.<br>I'd also like to stand behing the very nice statement from AB about putting any guilt etc out of the equation!<br>It is a very good lesson in this, and I thank you deeply for posting it, I know it wasn't easy for you!<br><br>Take care!<br><br>(and cross all your fingers for me on the 22. july <img src=\"http://www.haloscan.com/images/smileys/content.gif\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" width=\"15\" height=\"15\" />  )<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Ulf Nagel | <a href=\"http://ci4me2007.wordpress.com\" title=\"http://ci4me2007.wordpress.com\">Homepage</a> | 07.15.09 - 12:57 pm | <a href=\"#127536\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127537\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=a23fd96068a6fc9b04a635e7bbd5764d&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Jennifer, what an incredible post! It was gutsy to say all you did, and I echo what everyone else has already said. You will always be an important mentor for AB and will continue to make a difference. <br><br>I was being pressured to go bilateral for Cochlear, (not from Cochlear, from my audi and friends), and I just hear too well with one! I have far to many risks in my balance b/c of my Meniere's to take that risk only to gain \"some benefit\" if any. <br><br>Super post, you continue to inspire me!<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Denise Portis | <a href=\"http://hearingelmo/wordpress.com/\" title=\"http://hearingelmo/wordpress.com/\">Homepage</a> | 07.15.09 - 1:26 pm | <a href=\"#127537\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127539\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=5d0c2ed80f94a4a1e13e1bf8d56123c0&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Jennifer, you inspire so many people because of who you are and how you approach things...that positive attitude just shines through!  Whether you use one CI or two, that won't change.  <img src=\"http://www.haloscan.com/images/smileys/content.gif\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" width=\"15\" height=\"15\" /><br><br>Your experience is just as important for people to hear, because not every CI surgery is a success.  And that's okay -- it's just part of life.  You have so much to offer as a mentor, because you've got experience from both ends of the spectrum...a perfectly successful CI, and one that just didn't meet your expectations.  Your experience, what you tried, what worked and what didn't, is all valid and helpful.  It doesn't mean you gave up...it means you went the extra mile!  <img src=\"http://www.haloscan.com/images/smileys/content.gif\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" width=\"15\" height=\"15\" /><br><br>Thanks so much for sharing, and for coming back to your blog.  I've missed you!<br><br>Even though we didn't get to talk much at the convention, it was such a treat to meet you and your family!  <img src=\"http://www.haloscan.com/images/smileys/content.gif\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" width=\"15\" height=\"15\" /><br><br>Big hugs!!<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Wendi | <a href=\"http://suddensilence.wordpress.com\" title=\"http://suddensilence.wordpress.com\">Homepage</a> | 07.15.09 - 2:07 pm | <a href=\"#127539\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127546\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=92befacd91e2ff31ec9f788d8d8f036c&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Jen,<br><br>This weekend, I know how much you were struggling and I wished I could have honestly switched places with you.  You know how proud I am of you for doing this.  You are realizing that your experience is no less meaningful than anyone else.  You are valued tremendously.  You have no idea how comforting the truth is to you and everyone that you \"surround\" yourself with now and in the future.  <br><br>Thats the Jen that I want everyone to know and love.  I love you girl!<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Abbie | <a href=\"http://contradica.blogspot.com\" title=\"http://contradica.blogspot.com\">Homepage</a> | 07.15.09 - 7:13 pm | <a href=\"#127546\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127559\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=cad8dc18d1747d2e5247faa8b5ee90fa&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />I predict, dear Jennifer, that your value as a mentor will increase greatly now that you have shared your bilateral struggles with such transparency, clarity, and true grit (I just had to add something of \"southern sentiment\"). Be at peace, dear one, that your journey is in God's hands and His way is perfect.<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Sheila | <a href=\"http://www.sheila777.blogspot.com\" title=\"http://www.sheila777.blogspot.com\">Homepage</a> | 07.15.09 - 10:31 pm | <a href=\"#127559\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127564\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=e85f15b9542ba6b33d588e7a91ec64f6&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />wow. <br>so good tohave you spell it all out. I can not imagine nor do I ever want to go through whatyou have done. Nor would I wish for you the stony path I have walked to get to this finally green and lush place that God has allowed me to experience this very day. Life, all by itself is a wonderful mystery, sharing it with caring souls is a terrific priveledge<br /><span class=\"byline\">           david | <a href=\"http://whateverisnew.blogspot.com\" title=\"http://whateverisnew.blogspot.com\">Homepage</a> | 07.16.09 - 7:27 am | <a href=\"#127564\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127595\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=d41d8cd98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Jennifer:  You supported me when my CI was failing after 10 years and needed to be replaced, and just knowing you were out here reaching out to people was such a comfort.  I only have one implant, because I don't have any desire for two.  I hear great with just the one, so I'm not messing with that.  I think you should do what is best for you, and if you hear better with just one, stick with that.  You've suffered long enough trying to make the other one work!  My AB Stuffed Monkey has just one implant, too, and he does fine.  <img src=\"http://www.haloscan.com/images/smileys/clin_oeil.gif\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" width=\"15\" height=\"15\" />  <br>Jill<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Jill | 07.16.09 - 5:45 pm | <a href=\"#127595\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127609\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=d41d8cd98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Jennifer, <br>I am so sorry to hear about this, but it proves that nothing is perfect. Sometimes it just doesn't work for everyone. But I am very thankful that you still do great with just the one! You should consider yourself very lucky! <br>It's a little off topic - but I was kinda in the same boat as you on whether or not I should be telling people about the \"sad situations.\" A few years ago, my brother's implant failed. That was a pretty freaky and depressing weekend when we found out (especially since it was right after I had gotten mine). But because of our involvement with AB and other deaf people, I didn't know what to tell them. I didn't want them to be discouraged or get the wrong idea. Do you sugar coat it with a cherry on top or do you be completely honest? <br>But then at the BEA training weekend, I realized that everyone's story is unique and that's what makes it so great in being a mentor. Even though your bilateral story doesn't have the happy ending like you wanted, you're still a success story that everyone should hear about.<br>You're an amazing person and I admire you for everything you have done!<br>Good Luck with the CIS Strategy.<br>-Samantha Brilling<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Samantha | <a href=\"http://www.samshearinglife.blogspot.com\" title=\"http://www.samshearinglife.blogspot.com\">Homepage</a> | 07.17.09 - 7:56 am | <a href=\"#127609\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127627\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=a9ebaf2a4bf291d0951cdb043839a911&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Jen, I had no idea you were struggling so much with your bilateral. My heart goes out you! You are an inspiration to so many of us, and I'm glad you felt comfortable sharing with us what's been happening. All of us will stand by you, knowing that you're doing what you can & what's best for your hearing. Sometimes, the paths we travel in our lives take us in directions we don't expect & we do our best to make the most of situations. I will hope the best for you with the CIS Strategy. You have been an incredible mentor & volunteer,giving so much of your time & of yourself to help others in their journeys. Your experience being bilateral-with all the angst you've endured, will add to your already great work. Whatever happens, know that you're surrounded by friends & lots of love! Hugs to you--Eric<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Eric | 07.17.09 - 9:42 pm | <a href=\"#127627\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127633\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=1cff7bdf17e3bb125823e46b87211337&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Jennifer, I'm sorry that you've had such a struggle with one of your ears/implants. You have given it a good shot and who knows, maybe the CIS will work for you in that ear. You were very brave in posting your feelings and trials and I'm sure that your experience will not take anything away from your being a mentor. Probably the opposite, you'll be an even better mentor!  Your experiences just underscore the fact that the journey to hearing with our CI's is unique for each of us. We each have to find what works best for ourselves and that's the experience we contribute to others. Big Hug to you! Janet<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Janet | 07.18.09 - 10:04 am | <a href=\"#127633\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127635\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=9e46ec2826ea8cd6cf72fefb10deab4f&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Jen ~ I did not know that you was struggling with of your one CI.You was very brave to share your story.I do  know that you are the far most incirredable volunteer and Mentor!<br>You have helped me and my family so much in the last 6 monthes and I would not have anyone alse to be my mentor.You are out going and caring preson I know! I do know that AB,your friends and family is here to support you what ever you make up your mind to do.I think the world of you and you are family to us and we are there for you.Thank you for beeing my dear friend and caring . Wr love you very much!!!!<br>Renee<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Renee | 07.18.09 - 11:10 am | <a href=\"#127635\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127636\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=029642a03b42df03ccb52e3a53e3f257&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Jennifer, your story touched my heart and brought tears to my eyes.  I'm sorry to hear you had a tough time with bilateral implant and I'm glad you shared this story with us.  I know that had to be the toughest for you to do. That alone took a lot of courage to come out and say that you have reached the end of the rope.  However, you are trying the CIS Strategy and I hope and pray that works for you.  Even if this strategy does not work, you have one very good ear that works great and you will still be able to do your volunteering and mentoring.  You inspire me, more than you know sweetie.  I will be there with you all the way and I cherish the friendship even though we have not met in person yet but that day will come.  <br>{{{{Hugs}}}}}<br>Becky<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Becky | 07.18.09 - 11:46 am | <a href=\"#127636\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127638\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=056bfc7ba9d6cfedea70b19dd97e0c20&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Oh Goodness.  I had no idea you were dealing with all this pain.  You're always so upbeat and supportive to others. <br><br>((((((((HUGS))))))))))<br>Kim<br /><span class=\"byline\">           kim | <a href=\"http://www.faceme.wordpress.com\" title=\"http://www.faceme.wordpress.com\">Homepage</a> | 07.18.09 - 2:24 pm | <a href=\"#127638\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127648\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=c0783eafcd11c791aa279f773cc07385&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Hi Jennifer,<br>I found a link to this post off of Laurie's site. I am so thankful I found you and your story, as it helps me, as a mom to a CI toddler, try to understand his world as much as possible! This post is amazing and my heart goes out to you. It takes so much courage to open up like this and share your experience. I give you so much credit for your strength of not giving up for over three years and still giving it one more shot! Amazing. What I have found in my short time in the CI world, is that each journey is so different ... but the best thing about that, is how much we can learn from each other. <br>Hugs to you.<br>Tammy (mom to Aiden - 15 mths with bilateral CIs)<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Tammy | <a href=\"http://www.texaskennys.blogspot.com\" title=\"http://www.texaskennys.blogspot.com\">Homepage</a> | 07.19.09 - 10:47 pm | <a href=\"#127648\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127650\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=74c6bf74e242bc0d58e1ea82dce1c4ac&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />From one Jen to another....You have always been such a source of support to me and the multitudes of others.  You have commiserated with us during our struggles and celebrated during our successes.<br><br>Having one or two functioning implants will not influence how effective you are at being a mentor and friend.<br><br>Love and Hugs,<br>    Jen<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Jennifer Bruno Conde | <a href=\"http://jenniferbrunoconde.blogspot.com\" title=\"http://jenniferbrunoconde.blogspot.com\">Homepage</a> | 07.19.09 - 11:49 pm | <a href=\"#127650\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127765\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=a05207b6b94ae3d1290ac6ff9e6cadee&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Jennifer,<br>You don't know me but I just want you to know it's ok to have good hearing in just one ear, if that's what it comes down to.  I'm not a CIer but have worn only one hearing aid, in the one ear that had more residual hearing ever since I was discovered to have a hearing loss in both ears at age 2.  As a kid I tried two hearing aids, and my comprehension of speech and other distinct sounds went out the window. Went back to one aid in the good ear and the comprehension came back. It seemed that my brain knew better about which ear was more receptive to sound and speech discrimination.  <br><br>Everybody's path is different. The fact that you have thrown everything you can think of to lick the problem and then some with this CIS srategy, shows that you didn't give up but did everything humanly possible to stay bilateral.  That is something to truly admire, even thru the pain and the weird sensations you felt. <br><br>You're the only one who can determine what really works best for your hearing.  And if that means just one implant in one ear, so be it.  Your honesty in this post reflects what has been your experience, and you'll find that people will respect and love you all the more for it.  <br><br>Best to you,<br><br>Ann_C<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Ann_C | <a href=\"http://ireflections09.wordpress.com\" title=\"http://ireflections09.wordpress.com\">Homepage</a> | 07.22.09 - 2:44 pm | <a href=\"#127765\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr><td class=\"MessageCell\">    <a name=\"127904\"></a>        <p><img src=\"http://www.gravatar.com/avatar.php?gravatar_id=d41d8cd98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e&amp;default=http%3A%2F%2Fec1.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FG%2F01%2Fx-locale%2Fcommon%2Ftransparent-pixel.gif&amp;rating=PG&amp;size=28\" alt=\"Gravatar\" title=\"Gravatar\" style=\"padding: 1px; margin: 2px; float: right;\" class=\"gravatar\" />Hi Jen,<br><br>I just returned from vacation and while searching for a couple posts from Abbie in preparation for tomorrow's 2 year CI mapping appointment, I got a heads up from Sam's blog about your post.<br><br>I totally support your decision and wish you the best with optimizing your hearing, whether that is one ear (more likely) or two.<br><br>Lori<br /><span class=\"byline\">           Loreene | 07.27.09 - 6:56 pm | <a href=\"#127904\" title=\"Link to this comment\">#</a></span></p><hr /></td></tr><tr>    <td class=\"InputCell\">                  <div id=\"newcomment\"></div><form method=\"post\" name=\"addComment\" action=\"http://www.haloscan.com/comments/stereophonicbionic/2034059056572330085/\" target=\"_self\">        <p>    Name: <br />          <input name=\"name\" type=\"text\" size=\"38\" value=\"\" /><br />          Email:<br />          <input name=\"email\" type=\"text\" size=\"38\" value=\"\" /><br />          URL: <br />          <input name=\"url\" type=\"text\" size=\"38\" value=\"\" /><br />          Comment:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href=\"javascript:emo_pop()\" title=\"Smiley and tag help\" target=\"_self\">?</a>&nbsp;<br />          <textarea name=\"addMessage\" rows=\"12\" cols=\"38\"></textarea><br /><input type=\"checkbox\" name=\"subscribe\" id=\"subscribe\" value=\"1\" /><label for=\"subscribe\">Notify me of followup comments via email</label>        </p>        <p class=\"PSubmit\"><input name=\"submit\" type=\"submit\" value=\"Publish\" style=\"font-weight: bold;\" class=\"SubmitButton\" />&nbsp;<input name=\"previewMessage\" type=\"submit\" value=\"Preview\" class=\"SubmitButton\" />        </p>      <input type='hidden' name='user' value='stereophonicbionic' /><input type='hidden' name='comment' value='2034059056572330085' /></form>    </td></tr>  <tr>    <td><p align=\"center\">        Commenting by <a href=\"http://www.haloscan.com/\" target=\"_blank\">HaloScan</a></p>      </td>  </tr></table><img src=\"http://c5.statcounter.com/counter.php?sc_project=561713&amp;java=0&amp;security=01eeff58\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></body>");