Manny W. was born with microtia and atresia in both ears and wears two CochlearTM Baha® 5 devices on the Connect System, one for each ear, to hear. Exposed to music at a young age, Manny has since developed a passion for dancing.
Manny’s mom Tiffany shares the impact his Bahas have had on his life and his love for music and dancing.
“Manny was born with bilateral microtia (no ears) and atresia (no open ear canals). He has worn bilateral Bahas since he was born– first on a softband and later through surgically implanted abutments. He is pretty much completely deaf without his Bahas but can hear very well with them on.
When Manny was 18 months old, I was a lead parent volunteer for the Wisconsin Children’s Hearing Aid and Cochlear Implant bill. During this process I learned many things about hearing and hearing aids, including the importance of introducing music at an early age to encourage listening and present different sounds. This was the first time we started putting Manny in music and dance classes, and he has loved it ever since! Manny is now nine years old and is in his third year of dance and has even been asked to join his dance studio’s competitive dance team next year.
Manny recently upgraded to bilateral Baha 5s. He really enjoys streaming music directly from his iPad® into his Baha 5s and dancing around the house! It is really quite an interesting sight because he is thoroughly getting his groove on, but I can hardly hear it!
In addition to dancing, Manny enjoys playing baseball, basketball, and riding bikes with his two brothers. We have learned to accommodate his sports and activities with his Bahas through a number of techniques ranging from using helmets to creating special communication cues.
Without his Bahas, Manny would have a much different life. I am thankful each and every day for the gift of sound the Bahas provide. I am thankful that this hearing has enabled a passion for music and dance, as it brings enjoyment not only to Manny but also to others.”
For more information on the Baha 5 and bone conduction implants as a hearing loss option for you or a loved one, click here.
Cochlear Baha 5 sound processors are compatible with iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone SE, iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5, iPad Pro, iPad Air 2, iPad Air, iPad (4th generation), iPad mini 4, iPad mini 3, iPad mini 2, iPad mini with retina display, iPad mini and iPod touch (5th generation) running iOS 7.X or later.
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