22/02/2026
In celebration of International Cochlear Implant Day coming up this week, we're shining the spotlight on a very special kiritaki/client Annette Barker, one of the speakers at our Power of Connection event last year.
Seventy-four-year-old Annette had her cochlear implant fitted five years ago when tests showed that her hearing aids were no longer effective. She became a full-time carer to her husband Derek when he developed Lewy Body Dementia and shouldered the burden of dealing with a range of healthcare professionals and making life-changing decisions for them both.
She says she simply didn't know how she would have coped without her cochlear implant. It gave her confidence, clarity and the will to carry on.
Annette was referred to The Hearing House by the Hearing Institute – watch a clip she filmed for them about her journey 💛