Now, I can participate in dinner table conversations, enjoy time in crowded family rooms, and hear clearly in noisy restaurants. These once-distant experiences have become joyful and accessible again.
How AB Cochlear Implants Transformed My Life with Meniere's Disease
Monday, September 1, 2025
When Erika Anderson Beale was diagnosed with Meniere's disease, which led to hearing loss, she managed with a hearing aid. But it wasn’t until she got an AB cochlear implant and Marvel Link hearing aid that her hearing returned to 95%, she could engage with friends and family again, and her life returned to her.
Discovering the Need for a Cochlear Implant
Living with a Ménière's disease diagnosis brings plenty of challenges, and for me, it’s been a relentless battle with hearing loss. My hearing difficulties began on my left side, and over time, progressed to both ears. However, what started as a struggle paved the way for one of the most transformative decisions of my life: getting a cochlear implant (CI) from Advanced Bionics (AB).
My first Otolaryngologist (ENT) suggested a hearing aid (HA). I started with a Phonak HA, but despite this support, my hearing continued to deteriorate. Five years later, I experienced profound hearing loss in my left ear, and to my shock, I also had significant hearing loss in my right ear.
After moving to a new area, I became a patient at Tampa Bay Hearing and Balance. My new ENT and audiologist provided exceptional care and guided me through my options.
By March 2024, my audiologist informed me that I qualified for a cochlear implant. She provided comprehensive information about the three major cochlear implant companies, empowering me to make an informed decision. At this point, I was wearing Phonak hearing aids, and the transition to Advanced Bionics felt like the perfect next step.
Choosing Advanced Bionics
Why Advanced Bionics? For me, the decision boiled down to compatibility and technology. I already owned several Phonak accessories like the TV mic and Phonak PartnerMic™, and I loved the seamless functionality these offered. As a sister company of Phonak, Advanced Bionics’ CI integrates seamlessly with Phonak devices, meaning I could continue using all my existing tools.
Another huge factor was Advanced Bionics' Bluetooth compatibility. The ability to connect my CI directly to any Bluetooth-enabled device was a game-changer for my day-to-day life. After reviewing all the information provided by my audiologist and having detailed discussions with my ENT and audiologist, I knew AB was the right choice for me.
The Journey to Activation
Initially, my CI procedure was scheduled for May 2024, but I needed heart surgery, so it was postponed to June 20, 2024. The procedure was performed at Tampa General Hospital, and I’m happy to report it went incredibly well.
I was officially activated on July 7, 2024, and paired my new AB Naída CI Marvel with a Marvel Link hearing aid for my right ear. This combination gave me a level of hearing I hadn’t experienced in decades.
Rehabilitation and Adapting to Life with My CI
Rehabilitation is a critical step when transitioning to a cochlear implant. For me, practicing at home with the WordSuccess app was incredibly helpful. I also found watching TV with closed captions on to be a valuable tool for improving my comprehension.
The difference my CI made was immediate and profound. Before, I couldn’t understand my youngest grandchild or fully engage in family gatherings. Now, I can participate in dinner table conversations, enjoy time in crowded family rooms, and hear clearly in noisy restaurants. These once-distant experiences have become joyful and accessible again.
Sharing My Experience
One of the unexpected highlights of my CI story came during my regular dialysis appointments, which I attend three times a week. On my very first day post-implant, a nurse asked about my CI, mentioning her father’s hearing struggles.
I was thrilled to share my experience and educate her about Advanced Bionics. I even brought the AB information packet my audiologist had given me to my next appointment for her to share with her father. Moments like these remind me of how life-changing this technology is—not just for me but potentially for others as well.
Reflecting on the Impact
Today, I’m hearing at 95%, and it hasn’t even been a year since my activation. Looking back on this process, I can confidently say that choosing the Advanced Bionics cochlear implant was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
The combination of my AB CI and Marvel Link HA has significantly improved my quality of life. Whether it’s participating in conversations, enjoying meals out, or helping others understand their options, the overall experience has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Today, I’m hearing at 95%, and it hasn’t even been a year since my activation. Looking back on this process, I can confidently say that choosing the Advanced Bionics cochlear implant was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Final Thoughts
If you’re struggling with hearing loss, I encourage you to explore cochlear implants and take the time to find the right solution for your specific needs. For me, Advanced Bionics offered the technology, compatibility, and support that matched my lifestyle.
Hearing clearly again has allowed me to reconnect with my family and community, and it all started with one decision. To anyone considering this path, know that the experience may be challenging at times, but the rewards are immeasurable.
Advanced Bionics has truly given me the gift of sound, and for that, I am forever grateful.
Note: The views expressed in this post are those of the author. Each person's situation is unique so your experience may not be the same. Talk to your hearing care provider about whether a cochlear implant is right for you.
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