Read Jack's story
"My third child Jack is the first deaf person I have ever known. His diagnosis was completely unexpected and in the beginning the emotions were overwhelming.
"Jack was born with moderate-severe hearing levels and was given hearing aids. Nothing can prepare you for what a challenge hearing aids and a young baby can be!
"We first came to The Elizabeth Foundation when Jack was just a few months old and it has been something we have looked forward to every week since.
"In the baby group, Jack loved the sensory activities such as drums, chimes and bubbles with a horn. At the same time, I felt supported by Julie and Emma who had so much knowledge, compassion and understanding of everything we were going through.
"Being in a room of parents who were on a similar journey felt like I was able to take a breath. I didn’t need to explain the ups and downs, the incredible joy of when your child turned to a sound or the tears that came from hearing aids falling off again, they just know and are right there with you.
"When Jack was 9 months old, his hearing levels were found to have changed to profound, so we began the journey to cochlear implants. This was no easy route but The Elizabeth Foundation helped us through this journey, teaching us all about the technology, the surgery and rehabilitation. They also facilitated us meeting children and families who had been exactly where we were.
"Shortly after implantation, Jack moved up to toddler group where he thrived and his cheeky character began to emerge. Nicki and Lily were always amazing at fun and exciting activities and songs. Keeping a group of toddlers listening and engaged (particularly Jack) is a sign of their expertise. Being with Jack in toddler group has given me so many fond memories and seeing his communication really emerge with his implants during this time was incredible. From his first babbles to his first words, each small step was celebrated.
"When Jack was old enough he was moved into Rachel’s preschool class. Jack is a physically active boy and I was worried he would not sit and focus. However, Rachel and Emma have almost magical powers (as well as a huge amount of passion, knowledge and experience) and they have brought out the best in Jack.
"His communication skills are amazing and he is absolutely thriving. He talks all the time about the wonderful things he does in the classroom, which is a delight to hear. Being able to observe Jack is such a special part of what the Elizabeth Foundation offers parents, I have on many occasions cried tears of joy at seeing Jack confidently share stories, make people laugh or have a giggle with his friends.
"The support network from other parents continues to have a profound impact on me every week and I could not imagine this journey without them.
"Jack is developing into a very happy, confident and curious young boy. He is beginning to talk about the fact he is deaf and having deaf peers is such an important part of his life and identity.
"You cannot summarise in words what The Elizabeth Foundation is, you have to experience it to truly understand. I encourage all parents of deaf children to be involved in this very special place."
Kim, mum to Jack
Jack's story
"You cannot summarise in words what The Elizabeth Foundation is, you have to experience it to truly understand. I encourage all parents of deaf children to be involved in this very special place."
