I am a member of a DHH social group that gets together maybe 3-4 times a year. We usually rotate from house to house, per group agreement, or if a member decides to throw a party.
I feel that all DHH people should be a member of such a group.
It really helps to know you’re “not alone.” Communication is easier, and you don’t have to struggle with the high speed conversations of hearing people. Although most of us are oral, we know sign and use it when necessary.
When I was young, I thought I was the only one in the world with such bad hearing problems. Later, I met other DHH people in school, social life and such. I cannot tell you how relieved I was to be with DHH people. I found it less stressful being away from hearing people sometimes. Isn’t that strange in a way?
Some years ago I took a class in deaf culture. It was pointed out to me that DHH culture is actually good for you, because of the wide support, understanding and education that’s available within it. I have found that generally to be true. Never shun it. Always respect the DHH culture.
There is a wide spectrum of DHH people within the culture. Many DHH have jobs, careers and businesses that are equal or rival hearing people’s. I’ll talk about about this in the near future.
I knew a DHH girl once who had mild-to-moderate hearing losses. Then, as she got older, her hearing got worse, and finally she decided, upon advisement, to get a cochlear implant.
She was happy with it, and her children told me that her hearing had gotten better. In fact, it improved enough that she was able to use the phone and understand movies. I was really pleased for her, and I’m sure her family was too.
But as she improved, she distanced herself from other DHH people, and acted hearing, and wanted to be with hearing people only. I am not sure how she had viewed herself before and after the CI. But I had to respect her decision, although I am not sure it was the best one she had made for herself. Is she better off leaving DHH people behind? Only she can say.
I know that if I were to suddenly become 100% hearing, I would never leave my DHH friends behind.
Anyway, no matter what, always have at least one friend who’s DHH.
It’s good for you and you’ll learn, at least, new technology being developed for DHH people. Especially when it comes to CIs, hearing aids and communication devices.
Most important of all, remember that your DHH friend(s) will understand and accept you completely. And they will laugh and smile with you.
For they have been there too.
Please see my website at: www.ruthpealer.com for more information about me.
I also maintain a second site for writers and friends at: www.ruthpealer.wordpress.com
