It was the five same words, "Sorry, I can't hear you", that plagued Gerry Ritchie’s everyday life for years. The gradual loss of his hearing became more prominent as time went on and it started to affect the quality of his life.
Previously a very sociable and outgoing person, Gerry began to avoid everyday interactions with people as he struggled to hear what they were saying. He feared they’d mistake him for "a right grumpy sod", when in reality, he was sparing them the chore of having to repeat themselves multiple times during a conversation as he couldn’t hear them.
Gerry attributes the main source of his hearing loss to his time spent in the RAF, where the aftermath of working in such a noisy environment is still being felt. Years of up-close contact with roaring Harrier Jump Jets during takeoff and landing procedures had substantially damaged his hearing.
In addition, time spent in close proximity to weapons being fired without ear protection had resulted in a significant loss of auditory perception for Coleraine’s Gerry Ritchie.
It wasn't until he reached his 50s that Gerry noticed an issue with his hearing, thanks in part to the observation of a friend who drew his attention to the fact that he had been lip reading. His instances of hearing loss culminated in being unable to hear the house alarm blaring one morning after he accidentally set it off, and had to be alerted by the neighbours, which served as a wake-up moment.
Evidently a worthy candidate, Gerry’s story has led to him becoming a recipient of the Gift of Hearing, as part of Hidden Hearing’s campaign to give away over €50,000 worth of hearing aids to those most deserving. He has received a free pair of hearing aids and can now hear friends and family clearer than before.
Adjusting to life with better hearing, Gerry’s been stunned by the difference it has made, not only to his hearing, but to his confidence. He advises others to do the same, "For others sitting on the fence about getting hearing aids, I promise it will change your world".
With a renewed sense of hearing, Gerry’s looking forward to things like his grandson’s school concert which he’s previously struggled to hear, along with not having to ask people to repeat themselves during everyday interactions. Get-togethers with friends and family are now a source of excitement, as Gerry’s settling into life with his newfound confidence.
"I’m looking forward to going to a live music gig and being able to chat to other festival-goers while enjoying the music, as well as being out with friends in a pub or restaurant and being able to actually hear what they’re saying even with background noise".
It’s the little things for Gerry, too, as he’s got a renewed appreciation for hearing the car indicator clicking, the kettle whistling and birds chirping outside. He’s also enjoying hearing "every word of the television without it being at tsunami levels or with subtitles".
"I’m so much happier within myself now. I’ve got my confidence and my personality back."
If Gerry’s story has inspired you to nominate a loved one, simply tell us why they deserve to win here: https://www.hiddenhearing.ie/lp/gift-of-hearing. The winners will be announced in January.
Give the gift of hearing this Christmas. Visit www.hiddenhearing.ie to read more stories like Gerry’s, and submit your nomination. Hidden Hearing. Your hearing is our expertise.
