The Pioneers: In April 1984, Sue Walters experienced a sudden and profound hearing loss due to meningococcal meningitis. That same year she was given the remarkable opportunity to try an experimental piece of technology: the cochlear implant. This innovative device was introduced by Professor Graeme Clark in Melbourne in 1978, who then further developed it to a 22-channel device and successfully implanted in 1982.
Just two years later, Sue received her implant on 15 August 1984. Sue and another recipient, Cathy Easte, received cochlear implants through the pioneering efforts of Professor William Gibson at Sydney’s Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.
Sue recalls, “It was very brave of Professor Gibson to take on this project as there was quite a bit of opposition to the idea of cochlear implantation from his peers and others in the community.”
In the photograph, Sue Edwards is having a hearing check with audiologist, Charles Pauka RPA, in 1989.
Life Changing Breakthrough
Sue became an ardent advocate for the cochlear implant. Though the early technology was not as sophisticated as today’s standards, it allowed her to engage in conversations, use the telephone, and find relief from persistent tinnitus. The implant was a breakthrough that felt nothing short of miraculous.
A Legacy of Support
Fast-forward to 2024 and Sue’s original device has been in use for 40 years: potentially a world record!
The success of Sue and Cathy’s implants generated considerable media interest and an influx of inquiries at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital. Many people who had been deaf for years sought the hope of hearing and looked to Sue and Cathy for insights.
Inspired by their experiences, Cathy suggested that they “start a club.” On 1 December 1984, the first meeting was held at the Adult Deaf Society at Stanmore in Sydney, marking the beginning of what would become Cochlear Implant Club and Advisory Association, named by Professor Gibson. It became an incorporated entity in 1989 and today, is known as CICADA AUSTRALIA.
Celebrating 40 Years of CICADA AUSTRALIA
This year marks the 40th anniversary of CICADA AUSTRALIA, a testament to the dedication of its volunteer members. The organisation has been instrumental in providing support and advice on cochlear implants, focusing on social gatherings and local volunteer groups. These connections help prospective implant recipients by offering first-hand accounts from those who have lived experience of receiving a cochlear implant. It’s often the reassurance that can provide an individual with the confidence to proceed with the implant.
New members are always welcome to join their networks.
As a volunteer member, here are some ways you can get involved:
- Become a local advocate.
- Organise support groups in your regions.
CICADA Australia is also seeking support to review and update this important resource: the Guide to Hearing Loss. This might suit an audiology student.
Volunteering is also just a wonderful opportunity to just connect.
Sue shares, “It is a rewarding experience and connects you to others in your community who you may not otherwise meet.”
You can join CICADA AUSTRALIA in continuing to make a difference and support those on their journey to better hearing.
For more information about CICADA AUSTRALIA, how to contact them, and details about their social events nationwide, please visit their website at www.cicada.org.au.
Deafness Forum Australia thanks Sue Walters, Judy Cassell and Steve Pascoe from CICADA AUSTRALIA for the information that shaped this article.