By Rori Bennett – Junior Reporter
Wallaceburg’s Kristine and Stu Moninger learned this past week that their 11-year-old daughter, Alaina, needs new cochlear implants.
Alaina has had cochlear implants since she was two-years-old, Kristine told the Sydenham Current.
The Moninger’s were told that the left processor in Alaina’s implant is not working and cannot be repaired as this type is now obsolete. The right processor of the implant needs to be replaced as well, as it is beginning to malfunction.
Without cochlear implants, Alaina is unable to hear, Kristine says.
A cochlear implant is an electronic device that can improve hearing in those with severe hearing loss.
It can be an option for people that have inner-ear damage and who receive limited benefit from hearing aids.
Unlike hearing aids, which amplify sound through all parts of the ear, a cochlear implant passes damaged portions of the ear to deliver sound to the auditory (hearing) nerve.
Alaina was able to receive her first cochlear implant in Ontario, but since the Cochlear Implant Program can only cover so many surgeries a year, and they did not use the same brand that Alaina already had, she was not a candidate to have her second implant done in Ontario, Kristine told the Sydenham Current.
This meant the family had to travel outside of the province for Alaina to receive her second cochlear implant in St. John’s, Newfoundland.
However, the Ontario Government still covered the cost.
11 years later, Alaina’s cochlear implants have started to break down.
The replacement of the implants are not covered under government plans and the Moninger’s are facing challenges to afford Alaina’s implants.
They need approximately $6,500 out of pocket, while a portion is covered by the Assistive Devices Program.
Kristine said she was off of work for a year because of her own surgery, but was denied disability during this time.
Kristine said she has no coverage through her work as a nurse.
Their family would appreciate any form of financial assistance from the community, through groups or fundraisers, Kristine said.
Subsequently, the community has started to answer the call.
The Moninger’s received a $500 dollar donation from the Chatham Girls Minor Softball Association.
Upcoming this summer, there will be a lemonade stand held at 88 Mount Pleasant Crescent in Wallaceburg on Saturday, July 20 from 9 a.m. until the lemonade is sold out.
On August 10, there is also a vendor sale fundraiser, being held at the Old Czech Hall in Dresden from 6 p.m. until 9:30 p.m.
A GoFundMe campaign has also been launched by Alaina’s aunt, Kim.
You can donate to the campaign, here.
