When Losing Helps You Win: Ann’s Story
Ann shares a laugh at Cochlear Celebration with Mark Doshier (left) and David Holen (right).
It’s not often in your life you learn how to transform a major loss into a life-changing win. But Salt Lake City resident Ann Lovell came to grips with her hearing loss and other serious health issues, all because of the love of a critically ill brother-in-law. “As I learned to reinvent myself and find the joy that life has to offer, my cochlear implants became an integral part of my journey,” Ann told me.
Hearing loss shadowed Ann for most of her life. Since childhood the progressive loss contributed to poor self-esteem, which lead to a life of self-imposed isolation. Unable to hear on the phone or enjoy group activities Ann said “I became an introvert.” This wasn’t the only health issue Ann faced. She dealt daily with the stigma associated with her weight.
Ann’s life would soon change. She began to teach deaf children and subsequently learned about cochlear implants. Receiving her cochlear implant in 1997, Ann proudly remarked that it “turned my life around.” With auditory therapy and less reliance on lip reading, Ann began to go to parties and listen to the radio again. And even better, communicate in her classroom with parents and children. Her confidence was beginning to return.
Inspiration to address her other health issues came through the loving words of her brother-in-law, struggling with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). Fighting for his life, he helped her recognize that it was time for Ann to take care of Ann. Her mental and physical health challenges had been exacerbated by her hearing impairment and after his death she decided it was time to “start over” with her own life.
Ann lost more than 230 pounds and decided to get a second cochlear implant.
Not only would Ann help herself, she became a role model for others, becoming one of the first people in Utah to receive a second cochlear implant. In her position at the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind, Ann interacts with parents of deaf children daily as an Orientation Specialist in the Parent Infant Program. Once a deaf child herself, Ann understands their challenges and proves they can be overcome.
“Getting cochlear implants has allowed me to truly continue on the path to exploring and living life to the fullest,” Ann said.
My conversation with Ann was more than inspirational. To me, Ann exemplifies the power we each have in being able to change our lives.
Hearing once again,
Ellen
Ellen Beer
This is such a life changing story. I pray it will reach many and give them the courage to move forward and hear again. ~SharonC~
I so enjoyed hearing Ann’s laughter when I talked with her – such a joy. Her students and parents at the deaf school surely love her for showing them “you can do it!”
What a terrific story and testimony about cochlear implants and Ann’s life! She is leaving a lasting legacy. Her job sounds very fulfilling too!
This is such a heart warming story and I am Blessed to call Ann my friend.