After depending on a hearing aid for more than 30 years 69-year-old former teacher Hendrina Nel experienced what some may still see as a miracle – the gift of hearing. But really, she was at the receiving end of medical excellence at its finest; Nel received a cochlear implant, the first of its kind performed in Paarl, at the Cure Day private hospital on Wednesday (15 October).
This groundbreaking operation was carried out by ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist and cochlear-implant surgeon Dr André van Straten, marking a new chapter in advanced hearing-restoration services in the region.
Shortly before going into theatre Nel, who once taught in Virginia in the Free State, told Paarl Post she was grateful for this opportunity after more than three decades’ severe hearing loss.
“I am grateful to God for this opportunity, as I had to rely on a hearing aid all these years. It was quite challenging as a teacher.
“I would often walk up to students, to listen to them and, often, also to read their lips. It was not always easy; I often made mistakes and misheard a lot of things.
“This is a new chapter and one I am so grateful for.”
Following the procedure Nel was expected to regain substantial auditory function, dramatically improving her quality of life.
“I just want to hear my grandchildren clearly again.
“I’m looking forward to being part of conversations and hearing better every day.”
“It is indeed a privilege to be part of Mrs Nel’s hearing-restoration journey,” said Van Straten.
“Cochlear implants offer new hope to patients who no longer benefit from hearing aids. It is truly rewarding to be part of a team of professionals who help someone reconnect with the world around them.”
Hospital Manager Anel Scheepers added: “This milestone demonstrates our commitment to medical excellence and patient-care innovation. We are excited to offer such transformative procedures locally and look forward to many more.”
Local audiologist Tamara van Zyl, who has been part of Nel’s journey to hearing since she moved to the Boland, was also present during Wednesday’s procedure.
Cure Day Hospital, Paarl, which forms part of the Cure Day Hospitals Group, continues to expand its scope of specialised surgical services with this latest achievement.
The procedure forms part of its mission to offer cutting-edge medical care in a comfortable, patient-friendly environment.
