Embracing the Journey: A Mother’s Reflection on Raising a Unilateral Hearing Child

By Kimberley Chiu

Becoming a parent is an awe-inspiring journey in itself, but when our daughter was diagnosed with unilateral hearing loss in her right ear, it added an unexpected twist to our adventure. In those early days, when she failed the newborn hearing test at the hospital, it was like walking through a fog of uncertainty. We hoped against hope that perhaps the tests were wrong, that maybe there was nothing to worry about. As we sat through long hours of ABR tests, the reality settled in – she was diagnosed with a gradual sloped hearing loss and suspected ANSD (Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder) in her right ear. It was a surreal experience, navigating the labyrinth of information from our audiologist. Hours were spent scouring the internet for answers, grasping at any shreds of knowledge that could illuminate our path forward.

Hope came in the form of support we found here in the BC Early Hearing Program. From speech and language therapy at the Children’s Hearing and Speech Centre to the invaluable guidance provided by BC Hands & Voices, we were embraced by a community that understood our journey intimately. And the Facebook groups! They became our touch points, connecting us with other parents who shared similar experiences and even offered to pass on their outgrown hearing aid gear.

Through it all, I’ve come to realize that being a parent of a hard of hearing child is not about dwelling on the challenges but rather about celebrating the victories, big and small. It’s about cherishing the moments of connection, whether it’s through sign language, her hearing aid, or simply holding her close and whispering words of love.

Now, as my daughter is on the cusp of turning one, she’s a talkative, babbly, and active little baby who wears a hearing aid, full of curiosity and laughter. In my desire to empower my daughter and instill in her a sense of self-acceptance and confidence, I decided to take on a project. During my maternity leave, I poured my heart into writing a children’s book based on her called “Cleo’s Super Ear.” It was my way of showing her – and the world – that hearing loss doesn’t define her, but rather adds to her superpowers.

I am overwhelmed with gratitude that libraries in Vancouver, Calgary, and several schools have picked up “Cleo’s Super Ear.” It fills my heart with joy to know that her story is reaching others, spreading a message of acceptance and resilience. I’m thrilled to share “Cleo’s Super Ear” as a digital book for free to our community.

Despite the initial shock of her diagnosis, there’s more clarity and understanding about the path forward. Sure, there are still worries as a parent (like her pulling out the hearing aid), and now I feel we are so much better armed with knowledge and the resources to take on challenges. So, to all the parents out there who may be walking a similar path, know that you are not alone. Reach out, lean on your community, and never underestimate the power of sharing and support.