THE END.. The Beginning

The End.  No this is the beginning.

Around 2 and half years old we started the process of identifying why Kylie’s speech and vocabulary was not at the level for her age.  What we thought then would be speech therapy sessions and working on flash cards turned into finding out our daughter was deaf and hard of hearing.  She has gone through more hearing tests than you and I have combined, CT Scans, MRIs, ABRs, EKGs, Halter Monitors and therapy sessions. We tried hearing aids in both ears and increased amplifications with not the results needed.  Keep in mind she did all of this while remaining our Smiley Kylie.

We were referred to University of Miami and to look at Cochlear implants as the next option.  Cochlear what?  Although in the beginning the question of why us, crossed our minds many times by this time in the process we quickly embraced the angel we were blessed with raising on earth.  Months of testing ensued to see if Kylie was a candidate for a cochlear implant and papers were prepared for the insurance.  More waiting, months of waiting and several back and forth conversations between University of Miami and our insurance and finally the approval for the cochlear implant for the right side and surgery is scheduled.  Surgery is completed Kylie is doing amazing and we move forward.

But wait, like us doesn’t she need two ways to hear not just one.  More tests, more insurance back and forth and that brings us to today, two years later!.  Surgery day for cochlear implant number 2! 

This is THE END of a process that started 4 years ago.  Kylie now has the equipment she needs to succeed in life.  From this point forward we just need to fine tune and update her implants and immerse her with language, therapy and love to grow and “catch up” to the levels for her age.  This is THE END of something we have spent so much of our time on.  This is the final exhale, the END of the road, the END of the journey. 

Although this is THE END, this is the beginning of a new road and a new journey and one we are so grateful that she has the ability to be on.  We are truly blessed by the amazing doctors, professionals, family and friends that have held our hands, encouraged us, played a role and helped make this all happen for our little girl. 

Now watch out world cause this one is going to take the world by storm!  

Here are some photos from today

 Time for a funny photo with Grandpa and Grandma in the hospital parking lot at 5:30am

 

Kylie and Daddy 

Hospital Gowns - What happened to the back??

Almost time to go back so let's do a funny photo or two 

Transport can I get a quick ride to the Operating Room - Smiles and giggles included

We are out of surgery and resting

All she wanted was to wear 

her cape on the way home.  In my book SuperGirl is very fitting

Resting on the couch at home and hiding a smile