At three weeks old, Reggie was diagnosed with bilateral profound sensorineural hearing loss after not passing her newborn hearing screen. She was given hearing aids in an effort to provide auditory stimulation and to prepare her for cochlear implants.

At ten months, she underwent cochlear implant surgery at The Royal Children’s Hospital in the hope this would provide her with the ability to hear.

A cochlear implant is a medical device used to enhance hearing in individuals with moderate to profound hearing loss.

“It was a huge decision,” Reggie’s mum Jess recalls. “We were anxious for the six hours she was in surgery, but it’s been life changing.”

Two weeks after surgery, Reggie’s implants were switched on. Her parents were prepared for a range of reactions, but Reggie responded with a big smile and turned toward their voices – an unforgettable moment.

Since then, Reggie has worked incredibly hard to learn to listen and speak.

“I enjoy hearing birds tweeting… I don’t really like it being quiet, only when I sleep!” says Reggie.

 Since her successful surgery there have been many milestones. “Hearing her say her first words was pretty special,” Jess shares, “and watching her enjoy music is always a joy.”

Reggie’s also learning Auslan, the sign language used in Australia which gives her access to communication when she’s not wearing her processors- during sleep, bath time, or when she needs a break. Auslan is becoming an important part of her identity and connection to the Deaf community.

Inspired by Reggie’s journey, Mum Jess now works as a Newborn Hearing Screener with the Victorian Infant Hearing Screening Program (VIHSP). VIHSP is a statewide program run by the Centre for Community Child Health, a department of The Royal Children’s Hospital and a research group of the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI).

“I saw the impact early intervention had on Reggie’s outcomes. The program is so important for babies and their families.” Jess say.

When asked what she wants to be when she’s older, Reggie says she now wants to follow in Jess’ footsteps, “I want to be like my Mum and screen babies.

“Jess’s message to other parents: “It’s okay to have a lot of feelings. Be kind to yourself, seek support, and enjoy your baby. It may not look how you imagined, but it can still be just as special.”