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Reaching a Goal

May 6, 2016 by lisagish 5 Comments

Just about the same time I set out on the journey to have a cochlear implant I was also invited to be the commencement speaker at graduation for the College of Nursing and Health Professions for USI, my alma mater.  An alumni is selected from each college to speak each year.

During the application and evaluation process for the surgery, there wasn’t really anything that gave me more anxiety than thinking about the timing of surgery and commencement on April 30, 2016.  I knew that I needed to be “functional” at the event.

I thought I would need at least a month after the implant was activated to be as close as possible to that “functional” place.  This meant that if I couldn’t arrange surgery before the middle or end of March, I wouldn’t schedule it until May.  It was a difficult reality, but one I was prepared to deal with.

When I found out surgery would be February 24th, it was such a relief!  Keeping my commitment for graduation wasn’t optional and now surgery would not have to be postponed.  I’ve met people who have waited up to 2 months for a surgery date, so I know how fortunate I am.

Last Saturday, I was able to fulfill my commitment – reach a goal that I had set.  There were nearly 300 graduates who participated in the commencement ceremony and I talked to them for about 12 minutes encouraging them by telling them “Don’t Just Show Up”.  No matter what they do when they leave commencement, even during potential upcoming interviews, be prepared, be driven, have a vision and plan to make a difference.  It was a wonderful experience!

Oh, and before I forget, I got the insurance approval letter this week.  My next surgery will be June 8th!

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Filed Under: Cochlear Implant, Hearing Loss Tagged With: cochlear implant, deaf, Hearing loss

Comments

  1. Susie Mueller says

    May 6, 2016 at 10:12 pm

    You are an inspiration!

    Reply
  2. Misty Wolford says

    May 16, 2016 at 2:24 pm

    Lisa, thank you for sharing your journey! I feel blessed to know that Hearing Healthcare Center played a small part and that you are now thriving in your new devices. Your determination and strength are truly inspirational.

    Reply
    • lisagish says

      May 23, 2016 at 7:41 pm

      Thank you, Misty! I would never consider the role that Hearing Healthcare Center played as a small part!! I am eternally grateful.

      Reply
  3. Michelle Sailing says

    May 17, 2016 at 10:29 am

    So Happy for you Lisa, best wishes to you. I know you will continue to do amazing things!!!

    Reply
    • lisagish says

      May 23, 2016 at 7:41 pm

      Thank you, Michelle!

      Reply

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About This Blog

My personal history of progressive hearing loss started in the early 2000's and eventually involved both ears. I have bilateral cochlear implants and I'm here to share my journey and to help others along theirs. Write to me at lisa@deafdefiance.com with questions or to share your story.

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