Coming to grips with the work and dedication that is required to raise a deaf child. 13 months hearing and Leila is learning to listen. Her words are coming slowly and I need to keep reminding myself that these things take time. I picked up the book “A Father’s Love” written by a father of a cochlear implanted girl that explained the enormous dedication and consistency it takes to raise a deaf child to eventually learn to speak and hear at normal levels. I immediately started to feel a little sick to my stomach because I knew that the countless speech therapy sessions since implantation and are still attending, mapping (fine-tuning) appointments, books, and research are still not enough. He also explains that it is absolutely crucial that we do not make a mistake in this process. We have one shot, a four-year window of opportunity that we will never have again. Talk about pressure.

 

I had a long talk with Joe, which started out with me being anything but pleasant or patient. As soon as the conversation/fight was over I found myself wishing I had taken a little more care in delivering my message. I don’t expect him to know exactly what to do, but I expected him to know what effort to make. With both of us working full-time jobs it is anything but easy.

 

But when I look at her, it is all the motivation I need. I just pray for the strength.

 

 

 

 

Much Love,

Rae