Nelle's second cochlear implant

Hi, my name is Nelle and one year ago I suddenly lost all my hearing and am now profoundly deaf in both ears. Around six months ago, I received a cochlear implant under the NHS, but as I am over 18 (I'm 22) I'm only eligible for one implant.

My implant has been very successful, however to improve my understanding of speech in noise, hearing people on my left side, and directional hearing, I would really like to have a second implant. Unfortunately my only option for this is to pay for one privately for between £30,000-£50,000.

I currently work a minimum wage job, and am planning to start studying at university in September so I can't afford the cost myself. My family are more than willing to help, but as an ordinary middle class family, raising that amount is not easy so we would be very grateful for all the help we can get.

Cochlear implants aren't a cure for hearing loss and I'm sure I will be able to live a happy and fulfilling life without another implant, however I believe it would make a big difference in making me feel included socially and allow me to take part more easily in the activities I enjoy.

While my family and I are working to raise as much as we can ourselves, we are extremely grateful for any donations.

Thank you all so much for reading my story and thank you so much if you decide to donate.