Girl hears 'Jingle Bells' after implants

From: United Press International - Dec 23, 2005

LONDON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- A British girl who was born deaf has gotten to hear "Jingle Bells," other carols and the Black Eyed Peas after she got cochlear implants in both ears.

Twelve-year-old Josie Caven suffered from wide vestibular aqueduct syndrome, which causes deafness through allowing an exchange of fluids that damages the inner ear, the Daily Telegraph reported Friday.

Before receiving the implants, Caven could only distinguish a few sounds through hearing aids, which she has worn since the age of 2.

Her mother said Caven lit up like a Christmas tree when she heard Jingle Bells on the radio. She added her daughter now wants an iPod for Christmas.

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