Cochlear Implant Brings Emotional Victory for 45 Children
Cochlear Implant Brings Confidence and Emotional Victory for Children
To mark World Cochlear Implant Day, the renowned Ahmedabad-based organisation ‘Tara Foundation‘ hosted a heartwarming graduation ceremony today for 45 of its students. This day is observed across the world to spread awareness about cochlear implants and how they help people with severe hearing loss. Doctors and experts say cochlear implants are one of the biggest medical breakthroughs for deaf children. Unlike hearing aids, which make sound louder, cochlear implants directly send sound signals to the hearing nerve. This allows the brain to understand sound. Studies show that children who receive implants early, especially before the age of five, often learn to speak and understand language much better.
These children, who have successfully navigated their way into the world of sound through the aid of advanced therapy and cochlear implants, were celebrated at a grand event held at the House of Marigold. Events like these play a big role in building confidence in children. Many hearing-impaired children feel left out in their early years. Graduation ceremonies help them feel proud of their achievement. Experts say emotional support is just as important as medical treatment. When families, teachers, and doctors celebrate children’s progress, it helps them grow stronger and believe in themselves.
In the presence of well-wishers and guests, these young achievers were awarded certificates, marking a significant milestone in their journey toward a bright and inclusive future. Inclusion in society has become an important focus around the world. According to global health organisations, hearing loss affects millions of children. However, with the right support, most of them can live normal lives. Education experts say that giving certificates and recognising progress motivates children and also spreads awareness among society that hearing-impaired children are capable and talented.
The ceremony was graced by Ms Shilpa Choksi, owner of House of Marigold, and Dr Neeraj Suri, a prominent ENT and Cochlear Implant Surgeon. These distinguished guests personally congratulated the children and offered their heartfelt encouragement, highlighting the profound impact that dedicated support and modern medical intervention can have on a child’s development. ENT surgeons play a key role in this journey. Cochlear implant surgery is a specialised procedure that requires skill and planning. In India, the number of such surgeries has increased in recent years. Government programmes and charity organisations have also helped many families afford this life-changing treatment.
These 45 graduates are now fully equipped to pursue education in mainstream schools alongside their peers, a success that stands as a testament to a decade of relentless effort by the Tara Foundation. Experts say that joining mainstream schools is a major turning point. It helps children improve their language faster because they interact with other children daily. It also prepares them for future careers. Many cochlear implant users around the world have gone on to become teachers, artists, engineers, and professionals.
Since its humble beginnings in 2016, operating from just a single small room, the organisation has blossomed into a vital support hub. Today, over 1,000 children receive essential care at the foundation, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, behaviour therapy, music therapy, and audiology services. Speech therapy is especially important after cochlear implant surgery. Children need to learn how to understand sounds and turn them into words. This takes time and practice. Music therapy is also known to help because it trains the brain to recognise different tones and rhythms. Audiology services help doctors check how well the implant is working.
Each year, between 35 and 40 children complete their training and transition into the mainstream, contributing to a meaningful shift in societal inclusion. This reflects a wider change happening in India. Awareness about hearing loss has increased. Newborn hearing screening is becoming more common in hospitals. Doctors say early testing helps identify hearing problems within the first few months of life. Early action gives children a much better chance to develop normal speech and language.
According to the leadership at Tara Foundation, cochlear implants have proven to be a life-changing boon for children with hearing impairments. Medical research supports this view. Many children who were once unable to hear can now listen, speak, and attend regular schools. Parents often describe it as a miracle when their child hears their voice for the first time. This moment is emotional and life-changing for families.
The organisation ensures a holistic development process by integrating modern pedagogical approaches, such as the Montessori method, with specialised environments like sensory gardens. The Montessori method focuses on learning through activity and experience. It allows children to learn at their own pace. Sensory gardens help children use their senses, including touch and sight, to understand the world. This improves brain development and learning ability.
At the heart of the foundation’s mission is the firm belief that no child should be deprived of the richness of the world of sound. The 45 graduates honoured today serve as living proof that when children are provided with timely opportunities, the right technology, and compassionate guidance, they can overcome any obstacle and excel in any field. Around the world, many successful people with cochlear implants have proved that hearing loss does not limit talent or dreams.
The organisation remains committed to supporting families at every step—from navigating hearing aids and implant surgeries to providing ongoing speech therapy—ensuring that every child can reach their full potential. Family support is very important in this process. Parents must help children practise listening and speaking every day. This teamwork between doctors, therapists, and families brings the best results.
Hearing impairment is no longer an insurmountable barrier to a fulfilling life. With early diagnosis through newborn screening and timely surgical intervention, these children are capable of building successful careers just like anyone else. Tara Foundation continues to act as a vital bridge between science and humanity, fostering an environment where these children can thrive and look toward the future with optimism. Their success stories also give hope to many other families who are still on this journey.
Must Read:
ASPIRE 2026 Sparks Inspiring Energy and Unity on Campus
Gujarat Law Society Centenary Inspires the Future of Gujarat