Celebrating Connection: International Cochlear Implant Day
- Feb 22
- 3 min read
This week we mark International Cochlear Implant Day — a moment to reflect on the role cochlear implants can play in supporting communication, connection, and participation.
At The Hearing House, we see every day how connection takes many forms. Whether through cochlear implants, NZSL, spoken language, assistive technology, or a combination of approaches, each journey is unique — shaped by personal identity, whānau aspirations, and informed choice.
Here, we’re proud to share a few stories from our community that highlight the power of connection.
Annette’s story: Strength through connection
We’re shining the spotlight on Annette Barker, one of the speakers at our Power of Connection event last year.
Seventy-four-year-old Annette had her cochlear implant fitted five years ago when tests showed that her hearing aids were no longer effective. She became a full-time carer to her husband Derek when he developed Lewy Body Dementia and shouldered the burden of dealing with a range of healthcare professionals and making life-changing decisions for them both.
She says she simply didn't know how she would have coped without her cochlear implant. It gave her confidence, clarity and the will to carry on.
Annette was referred to The Hearing House by the Hearing Institute – watch a clip she filmed for them about her journey
Nick’s story: A full circle moment
We also recognise Nick Jones, one of our audiologists, whose journey reflects a powerful full-circle moment. In 1995, Nick became one of the first children in New Zealand to receive a cochlear implant at just three and a half years old. The surgery was performed by cochlear implant surgeon Dr Bill Baber.
They met up again nearly 30 years later at The Hearing House, as Bill was preparing to retire from cochlear implant surgery – coincidentally, that meeting took place on International Cochlear Implant Day!
Nick describes it as a “full circle moment” he’ll never forget. From a kiritaki/client, to an audiology student on clinical placement, and now an audiologist in our team – Nick’s journey reflects a lasting connection and care.
You can see him talking about the experience here in a recent address he gave to the Southern Cross nationwide team.
The Power of Connection
The origin of cochlear implants was driven by a vision of reducing isolation and strengthening human connection. For some, they represent one of the pathways to communication, accessibility and participation.
Communication isn't a one-size-fits-all process.
It may be facilitated through cochlear implants, NZSL, spoken language, other technology, or a combination of all of these — and each pathway reflects personal identity, whānau aspirations, and informed choice.
At The Hearing House, we're a cochlear implant programme grounded in connection first. Our role is to walk alongside our kiritaki and their whānau — supporting access to communication in the way that works best for them, and contributing to inclusive, connected communities.
Here’s a look back at highlights from our Power of Connection event in Wellington last year, celebrating our Deaf, deaf, hard of hearing, and communication-diverse community.
Celebrating new beginnings: Henry and Jack
We’re also celebrating two of our young kiritaki who have recently started secondary school.
Thirteen-year-old Henry Optican is at Auckland Grammar and is learning Japanese and for the first time, Latin. He's also enjoying science and has joined a Dungeons & Dragons gaming group.
Jack Coombs, who turns fourteen today, has just started at Tauranga Boys' College and is also really enjoying science. He had his first school Athletics Day this week and was really looking forward to the 100 metres which is his favourite race.
We wish both Henry and Jack all the best for this next milestone in their education journey, and salute them for embracing secondary school life!
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