CLIENT STORIES: Written Stories
Our vision at The Hearing House is to foster a sense of community where everyone is welcome.
People are at the heart of everything we do and we co-design our services with kiritaki and whānau
to ensure we understand and meet their needs.
Here are stories of our kiritaki whose lives we've been privileged to help change.
Louis's story
Louis Smith was born with very limited hearing, and his parents, Nicole and Josh, were quickly connected with The Hearing House for support. Meeting audiologists, speech therapists, and a whānau counsellor gave the family guidance, reassurance, and a sense of community as they navigated early interventions and the cochlear implant programme.
Joining the Learn and Connect Baby Group helped them connect with other families, celebrate their babies, and embrace a positive perspective on hearing differences. The family feels supported, empowered, and hopeful for Louis’ future in the deaf community.
Annette's story
Annette Barker, a cochlear implant user, has found renewed happiness with Tina, her hearing dog, a trained Cavoodle who alerts her to important sounds. Tina’s companionship has helped Annette cope with the loss of her husband and brought joy, confidence, and independence back into her daily life.
Together, they train and navigate everyday environments, strengthening their bond and allowing Annette to reconnect with the world around her while sharing support and happiness with others.
Lyn's story
Seventy-eight-year-old Lyn Thomson received a cochlear implant after years of relying on hearing aids and lip reading. Initially frustrated and struggling to adjust, he found support and guidance through The Hearing House’s whānau counsellor and Connect & Share events, which helped him adapt and feel less alone.
Now enjoying improved hearing, Lyn participates in work, family life, and dancing again. He encourages others to consider cochlear implants, saying the experience has greatly enhanced his quality of life and happiness.
Maiva's story
Seventy-eight-year-old Maiva Keatley experienced hearing changes after chemotherapy in her 30s, which gradually made communication and work difficult. She managed with lip reading and hearing aids but often felt isolated.
After receiving a cochlear implant in June 2025, Maiva’s hearing improved significantly. Attending The Hearing House’s Connect & Share sessions helped her gain confidence, reconnect with family, and enjoy everyday sounds again, making her feel supported, inspired, and more connected.