where Lydia stands on LTHF and Cochlear

[Guest guest]

Sigh. I feel I have been misunderstood on several points. It is very

frustrating to me because I don't want to leave anyone (and especially

not Cochlear or LTHF) with the impression that I am displeased with

them or what they have done.

Here's where I stand:

* We may never know the real reason for why negotiations broke down

between Cochlear, MedEl and LTHF because we haven't heard all sides of

the story (and may not hear them, as they are privileged communications.)

* Cochlear implant companies SHOULD invest money in the push for

insurance coverage of bilateral implants (and Bahas, etc.). This

makes financial sense for the companies and helps the patients.

* I am happy AB and the Mann Foundation continue to support LTHF.

* I am happy Cochlear is still going to support patients, even though

they are doing so independently.

* A unified, brand-neutral approach (the old LTHF way) appears as less

self-serving than when it comes directly from a company or a one brand

foundation. I am sad it might not continue this way.

* Several children I know personally (and many others I have read

about on listserves) have bilateral implants thanks to LTHF. Many

other individuals will be helped through revisions to insurance

medical policies already changed.

* For me personally, legal means should be a last resort. When LTHF

offered to take on my son's processor upgrade denial as a guniea pig

case, I declined and was able to get the upgrade covered through

letters from my son's audiologist and me.

* My personal connection to LTHF is that Dr. Roberson was my son's

first implant surgeon (we moved to east coast, that is why he wasn't

the second as well) and I have written an article with Sheri Byrne for

AG Bell. I think they are out of this world!

* I have Cochlear to thank for the life-changing devices that let my

son take in the world and give back to it in ways that were unimaginable.

Thank you for reading.

Lydia

Mom of , age 9, bilateral