While playing at the park today, Sophie met a new friend who was quite interested in her implants. Sophie and the little girl were jumping around on the playhouse and the girl would occasionally stop and point to or touch Sophie's processors. I stayed back for a little bit to see how this would play out and eventually, the girl asked, "What's on your head?" I left my spot on the bench and edged closer just in time to hear Sophie loudly and clearly state, "Those are my implants! I wear them on my ears." And the jumping and giggling resumed.
I stood there for a minute as my eyes got teary behind my sunglasses, then I went back to join my husband and told him about the conversation I witnessed. He smiled and said, "She's going to be fine." While such a small, brief moment, those few seconds of conversation were important and hopefully telling of the future. Although only two and not yet able to explain WHY she wears implants, Sophie is able to describe what they are - and did so proudly. This is something that has weighed heavily on my heart since the beginning of our journey and today she has given me a glimpse of how she will advocate for herself. My heart is a little lighter and I am one proud momma. :)
Very cool! I love it that she advocating for herself! We were in Gymboree a few weeks ago and Lily was sitting with some kids watching the t.v. they have in there. One girl asked her what she had on her ears. Without missing a beat, Lily said, "Those are my cochlear implants. That's how I hear."
ReplyDeleteWe should plan another trip to MO! :)