Jacob’s story

Read Jacob's story

"Hello, I'm Jacob and I am 14 years old. I was born profoundly deaf – this was unexpected for my parents but it has been positive in the end!

"I had my first hearing aids fitted at 6 weeks old and started at The Elizabeth Foundation straight after that. I was bi-laterally implanted at 15 months.

"My family moved to the Isle of Wight when I was two, but we still came to The Elizabeth Foundation every week on the ferry. We lived on the Island for just over 10 years where I experienced a great primary school, making loads of friends who treated me as an equal to them but I did have to explain what my 'ears' were all about! I enjoyed every part of primary school and learned so much. It was also where I started Scouts and joined my first cricket team!

"We moved back to the mainland in 2023 and I now go to Fareham Academy, which has a Hearing Unit.

"I love life and love listening all the time – talking to my friends and listening to music. My cochlear implants now have Bluetooth, so I can listen whenever I please without headphones – much to my mum's annoyance!

"My hobbies include a range of sports, mainly cricket, football, and cycling. I enjoy watching Formula 1 as well, as it is very exciting. Another one of my hobbies is gaming on my computer with my friends.

"I have been part of the Scouts since I was 5, going through Beavers, Cubs, and Scouts, and finally achieving my Chief Scout Gold Award. Alongside this, with my school I managed to achieve my DofE Bronze award as well. Best thing about scouting and the DofE was the camping, fun wide-games, and other crazy activities!

"Life has been varied, with good times and frustrating times – like moving from a great primary school to a tough secondary school environment. But mainly it has been positive and that's all thanks to my parents, and also down to myself, as we have that determination and 'never give up' spirit. This has allowed me to have the best opportunities that I can, just like any other person.

"I think they are the main reason I've been so successful in all aspects so far – school, sports, friends, and so much more. I also look forward to completing my GCSEs, which I am hoping to get some good grades in.

"These last few years have been particularly great as I have become really confident and able to express my personality. Now I don't worry about having friends around my house; I have been out with them in town multiple times and had so much fun! I've also started going to the gym recently to work out.

"I will always be grateful for the love and care that me and my family received from The Elizabeth Foundation. It will always have a special place in my heart."