I have been suffering from multiple/double ear infections all year. After six doctor visits and 3 rounds of antibiotics I finally got a referral to see an ENT specialist. After the examination, CT scan and hearing test, I was informed that both of my ears have suffered a 50% hearing loss, and that I will require hearing aids for the rest of my life.
The ear infections most likely have nothing to do with the hearing loss but this was the catalyst that brought me to where I am now. Also, they don't know why, nor do they know if it is progressive yet. The best guess right now is that it is probably attributed to head trauma...of which I have a long history.
To say that I spent the first two days in utter shock is an understatement. I'm only 42, how can this be?
I can't wallow in self pity forever so I have accepted it and honestly this diagnosis explains SOOOO much! I have been struggling for years understanding higher pitches, especially female voices (my little daughter is in this category).
My ears are hypersensitive to all sound due to them overcompensating for my hearing loss. What sounds normal to you sounds twice as loud to me, and it's very painful. So I often find myself avoiding social situations because they are so exhausting (and I thought this was solely due to my introvertedness.) But come to find out there has been a lot more going on with me.
Anyhow, the worst news is that hearing aids are extremely expensive and they are NOT covered by insurance. So BOOOO to that!
I have decided that I just cannot let my family bear this burden. We've already been through so much the last few years and we've had enough stinkin setbacks.
Soooo my solution is to have a little fundraising campaign where I can sell my artwork just in time for the Holidays!
I need to raise $3,800 (these aids are the middle of the road quality).
I'm not looking for sympathy nor am I looking for handouts, I am asking that you consider my art worthy enough to give to yourself or friends and family.
And if my art just isn't your "cup of tea" would you mind sharing my story?
In the meantime, the doc has loaned me a set of demo aids which I am wearing now. HOLY COW, I had no idea how much I've been missing out on! I kind of love them and hate them at the same time! But guess what, I don't have to say "WHAT???" to my daughter all the time anymore!
Thank you in advance for your support! Here is a link to my Etsy shop where I am selling glicee prints of my Watercolors. I will also be listing greeting cards as soon as I can. I will be posting throughout the weekend so keep checking back. ...and I promise it won't be JUST chickens.
6 comments:
Oh goodness Sherry, so sorry that you need to do this, but it will be a blessing that you can hear. I know that at some point I will need them too. I already know that I favor 1 ear over the other and have difficulty with low pitches - meaning farmguy. Good luck raising the funds.
I WOULD love to help out! I will be looking for your artwork! I have followed some of your creative endeavors and cannot wait to see what you have to offer!
Take care
Prayers for you and your family!!! I hope all is well soon!!!
Oh, no! You were so cheerful and upbeat at Tat Days that I never would have suspected that you were going through this. I'm glad the hearing aids are working for you, and I hope you're able to raise the money that you need quickly!
FWIW, my DH needs hearing aids and we are in the same boat. A good friend told me that Costco has the best prices on them and its worth it to get a membership as the savings are substantial. She also said that eyeglasses are also priced better than what you'll pay at an optometrist. I verified the prices online and they are significantly cheaper here. You may want to investigate them in your area or travel to one nearest you. Best wishes and good luck!
So sorry for your hearing loss, my husband suffered same and it was hard to watch. He would never consider hearing aids. I know my hearing is not as it used to be, however, I too cannot stand loud noise! I never equated that with hearing loss. Makes me wonder!
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