A Future to Match Her Name for Young Hope

Transitioning to the “new normal” of life is no easy feat, but like many of the children enrolled at Hear and Say, bright and bubbly Hope is taking it all in her stride.

Born with profound hearing loss in both ears, Hope was less than one year old when she had her cochlear implants first switched onto sound – and not even a global pandemic can get in the way of her progress over two years later, learning to hear, listen and speak.

“After the initial shock for everyone concerned, it has been pretty smooth sailing,” said Hope’s grandmother, Susan.

“Hope and all her family have taken it in their stride, and we have had nothing but excellent and supportive care from Hear and Say as well as the Queensland Children’s Hospital.”

Now a busy three-year-old, Hope loves crafts and playing on climbing frames and slides at the playground, particularly if there are other children to have fun with.

Hope currently attends her fortnightly listening and spoken language therapy lessons via telepractice, as well as joining LEAP Group Social Skills program online each week. Hope’s speech and language goals are targeted through lots of play-based activities, and storytelling with books and toys.

“Hope’s therapists have been wonderful and the attention we all receive from Hear and Say is very heart-warming; it has all made a big impact in Hope’s life,” said Susan.