News Anchor Gina Maravilla Shares Her Deaf Daughter’s Inspiring Cochlear Implant Journey

Cochlear implant has brought Gina Maravilla’s daughter’s hearing back for a second time

A device called a cochlear implant is a miracle for AZ Family anchor Gina Maravilla, her family, and especially her 11-year-old daughter, Kennedy.

Kennedy wasn’t born completely deaf, but she has had hearing issues from the beginning.

When she was four-years-old she completely lost hearing in her left ear. That’s when she received her first implant. It has been a big success.

Kennedy rocks first base for her softball team. With this second cochlear implant, she'll soon be able to better hear her parents and friends cheering for her.
Kennedy rocks first base for her softball team. With this second cochlear implant, she’ll soon be able to better hear her parents and friends cheering for her.

A few months ago, Kennedy woke up to find she’d completely lost sound in her right ear. She’s now received a second implant.

There’s some time that needs to pass between surgery and turning the device on.

Gina has been documenting Kennedy’s journey and shared these very personal moments in this report.

With Kennedy's cochlear implant now successfully implanted and turned on, she's working on auditory therapy to improve the way her brain picks up sounds.
With Kennedy’s cochlear implant now successfully implanted and turned on, she’s working on auditory therapy to improve the way her brain picks up sounds.

Personal note from me–

Gina was a student intern at KTVK when I was a reporter there in ’90’s.

To see her grow into such a talented broadcaster, and even better, a great mom, well, it just makes my heart swell.

Can’t say I’m surprised about either. The seeds were there even when she was a college student.

Gina, I’m just proud of you, of Kennedy.

Proud to call you, “Friend!”

“Hope Possible: A Network News Anchor’s Thoughts On Losing Her Job, Finding Love, A New Career, And My Dog, Always My Dog.”

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News Anchor Gina Maravilla Shares Her Deaf Daughter’s Inspiring Cochlear Implant Journey

by DarynKagan time to read: 1 min
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