All businesses love a 5-star review, but, for even better feedback, sometimes we ask the reviewer to tell us more about the service they received, or about the journey that brought them to Steven Hale Hearing. Here, we hear from Deb, whose review included the lines “…I hadn’t heard the clock tick for years!…” and “…my family and friends have all commented on the changes too…”.So, we contacted her to find out more – these are her words.
What happened to your hearing?
“As a former Head Teacher, I began to really struggle in the school hall, 8-10 years ago, where there would be some 500 children assembled and I found it impossible to hear anyone at the back, and when chairing meetings around a large table. I had also become embarrassed asking people to repeat themselves.”
How did reduced hearing affect you?
“At its worst, I was struggling to sleep, I suffered with headaches and became anxious that my left ear would become as bad as my right. This led to me suffering with low moods and depression, and to feeling more and more isolated. In turn, this affected my family and social life as I just couldn’t engage in conversation. It was also exhausting. I am a football fan and concert lover, and thought these would have to stop as I was anxious loud noise would cause even greater hearing loss. Also, having recently retired, I had hoped to engage in some voluntary work, but I was feeling less confident about trying anything which would involve conversation on the phone or face to face. Eventually, I thought I had had everything tested, and, at only 65, would have to accept a much-reduced quality of life. That’s when I did a Google search and Steven Hale Hearing popped up! I thought his website was excellent, with pictures, graphics – and even a podcast! So, with nothing to lose, I phoned…”
How did you find us?
“Well, this was quite a journey! I did my best to ‘soldier on’ for a while, but, when I could deny it no longer, I saw my doctor, who syringed my ears. This was not a magic cure, and they were soon as bad as before. Then I visited a high street company, but they only offered a limited service and products, so I paid for private treatment. This was good at first, as I had similar high frequency loss in both ears, as well as tinnitus, so I had hearing aids for four years and upgraded to rechargeable just before Covid. However, when Covid struck, my tinnitus got worse. I was sent for two MRI scans -thankfully clear – and was tested for vertigo and Meniere’s disease. I tried all the therapies I could to aid sleep, but they didn’t distract me enough! I didn’t know if I had hearing loss because of inner ear damage, or even genetics, but I resigned myself to the fact that I would probably have to live with it – find a way to cope somehow.”
What happened at Steven Hale Hearing?
“As soon as I met Steven, I knew I could relate to him! We immediately slipped into a mix of straight talk and banter as he told me he just wanted to know what he was dealing with. I was sceptical of the hearing test, but Steven’s was different – even how he prepared me. Afterwards he showed me the results, which were similar to many I had seen before, but his explanation was different. Steven said he would apply the solution to the loss, as opposed to taking the computer advice – he went ‘free hand’ and fitted me with trial aids. They really took some getting used to – because I began to hear sounds I hadn’t heard for years! Immediately I became less anxious, which, in turn, allowed my brain to be more ‘open’. When I contacted him to make changes he was really accessible – brilliant! My son has also noticed a difference – I no longer think he mumbles, and he now knows he can’t make quiet, casual comments around me!”
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking a visit?
“It’s all about the detail, confidence and helpful solutions. He just wants to do the best for you. He gives time to people and has the skill that gives you confidence. In fact, I have now booked a solo holiday – and I would certainly not have done that before Steven helped me! I am not anxious now, nor embarrassed, as I know he is making the very best of my remaining hearing – he has reopened my world! Just go! Don’t be hesitant – your life enjoyment is not worth any hesitation; you will be delighted!”
In summary Whilst it is our passion (and duty) to provide our clients with the very best hearing health treatment possible, we find that taking the time to actually speak to some reviewers brings us even better feedback – and allows us to continually examine and develop our service provision. After all, it’s all about you.
