Rachel shares her personal journey as a bilateral Baha® System recipient and how it has empowered her to overcome challenges in her life. With her new Baha 6 Max Sound Processors, Rachel is experiencing added features and benefits and hearing sounds she has never heard before.
Why share my story?
“I’m excited to share my journey as an inspiration to fellow Baha System recipients and anyone navigating life with challenges. My message is simple yet powerful, “don’t let the word ‘disability’ define your limits.” Growing up without a role model who shared my experiences, I forged my own path in a world designed for hearing individuals. I want to be that beacon of hope for others, proving that hard work and determination can lead to amazing achievements.”
Hearing Loss
“At 2 ½ years old, I was diagnosed with hearing loss after being adopted from China. In my left ear, the outer ear is present, but I have no functional ear canal or middle ear bones. My right ear lacks an opening, entirely. At 6 years old, I was introduced to my first Baha Sound Processor.”
Upgrade Experience
“Over the years, I’ve used various Baha devices—the Baha Divino, Baha Compact Sound Processor, Baha 3 Sound Processor and the Baha 5 Sound Processor. These devices have been transformative, giving me access to a world of opportunities and enabling me to communicate and thrive.
I upgraded to the Baha 6 Max Sound Processor on December 13 2024, and the technology is amazing! I am hearing more sounds with the Baha 6 Max [Sound Processor]—I have been asking my family ‘what’s that sound?’ because I had never heard certain sounds with my previous sound processors. I love that I can connect with Bluetooth®1. When I am at the gym, on the basketball court, I like that I can go all the way across the court without needing to carry my phone2 with me. I also hear myself talking more now, than I did prior to upgrading to the Baha 6 Max [Sound Processor]. So far, upgrading to the Baha 6 Max Sound Processor has been a very positive experience.”
Overcoming obstacles
“Being the only deaf student in school was isolating at times. Constantly working to understand speech was mentally and physically exhausting. I often felt out of place and had to deal with the frustration of asking people to repeat themselves or I would pretend to hear them. Navigating this environment required extraordinary effort and was exhausting.
I also faced doubters, including professionals who underestimated me. But those doubts only fueled my determination. With the help of speech therapy, an Individualized Education Program (IEP), and unwavering support from my parents and family, I broke through barriers. Today, I am proud to say that I have achieved independence, earned multiple degrees, and have grown into a confident woman.
My journey hasn’t been a solitary one, thankfully. My parents, family and my fiancé have been my biggest cheerleaders, consistently encouraging me to pursue my dreams and standing by me through every step.
Fitness is also a big part of my life. It isn’t just about the activities that I do, it’s about embodying a mindset of relentless determination and unwavering commitment to pushing my body to its absolute best.
I’m currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Outdoor Recreation at Northern Michigan University, blending my love for the outdoors with academic growth. In collaboration with the Innovate Marquette program, I’m finalizing innovative headgear, SolaceShield, designed to eliminate feedback issues for hearing device users wearing winter hats. This product aims to empower individuals to fully enjoy outdoor activities, comfortably.
Looking back on my transformation from the timid, quiet girl I used to be, it is truly remarkable to see how far I have come. I remember the times I struggled with my speech and lacked confidence in expressing myself. Those challenges and obstacles seem so distant now, and I owe it to my parents unwavering encouragement and the countless visits to the doctors, audiologists, and IEP meetings. I’ve come a long way from that girl with ‘disabilities’ to the independent and confident woman I am today. People are surprised when they find out I’m deaf.”
Lesson for others
“We all face challenges, but they don’t have to define us. Whether you are deaf or are facing another hurdle, what matters is how we respond. You can pursue your passions, break stereotypes and achieve greatness and use that obstacle as an opportunity to inspire.”
Find out more about what upgrading to the Baha 6 Max Sound Processor could mean for you!
- The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Cochlear is under license.
- For sound processor and app compatibility information visit www.cochlear.com/compatibility
