The Gift of Hearing
Client: The Gift of Hearing
About this Project
Even before James lost all hearing, his parents, Mike and Nadine Mohney, had begun researching how to cope — from enrolling in sign language classes as a family to pursuing cochlear implant surgery. To their dismay, they discovered that the life-changing, but expensive surgery was not covered by their medical insurance.
After many difficult months, the Mohneys were introduced to The Gift of Hearing Foundation (GHF), an organization dedicated to providing cochlear implant surgery to those who cannot afford it. This video chronicles the Mohney family's journey as they prepare for James' first implant surgery, recovery and device activation.
Filmed over the course of six months, the Mohney family was kind enough to let us be present for so many impactful moments in their lives -- some joyous, some scary. We were able to film in the operating room during James’ cochlear implant surgery, an understandably difficult day for Mike and Nadine, and we were there weeks later when the device was activated for the first time. It was an honor to document this time in their lives, and we hope this project has led to other families receiving the same support.
The Gift of Hearing Foundation ended its programs in 2017 following founder Eileen Jones’ retirement. However, another recipient of GHF support, Jacob, took up the mantle via the organization Jacob’s Ride for Hearing where an all-volunteer staff is still working to support those unable to afford a cochlear implant. There are additional organizations listed below that also support individuals in getting a cochlear implant.
