After purchasing Level 1 some time ago, I put it aside for ‘another time’. Now, with retirement looming and more time to spare I’ve recently started studying and practicing the course.

My motivation to do so came in July after, as a TV cameraman I filmed a preview of the European Cup Triathlon here in Ireland. One competitor we featured has been profoundly deaf since birth and is also without speech - and who coincidentally lives just half a mile away from me.

At 28 years he must be continually frustrated by people talking ABOUT him, not because they were deliberately ignoring him as a person but because of the communications difficulties associated with deafness. Very few people, including myself know sign language. This is why, out of respect for him I’m reluctant to do so here. But in order to ask for member’s help and advice, I see no alternative.

He is superbly race fit, holds a business degree and faces life with commendable optimism and good humour. His deafness though is almost total, although he can hear very loud sounds such as at a disco. Other members of his family have a similar handicap but to a lesser extent.

From reading further it appears to be a genetic disorder which may have stunted the development of hair cells (essential for hearing) within the inner ear. There has been research using stem cells in mice which resulted in the growth of hair cells but doubtless it will take science a long time to treat this handicap in humans.

Having been an athlete myself I have the utmost respect for this person. After over 20 years, inspired by my new friend and with faith in SFQ to put me back on my feet after injury, I’ve even started training again myself! And it’s HE who is encouraging ME.

Having only recently met him though, I’m reluctant to delve too much or to suggest this or any other kind of intervention (he’d understandably think I’m a crackpot). Maybe in the future and after I’ve received further training and have got more experience I would then broach the subject of SFQ.

My big wish (or dream) is to enable my friend to be able to hear. Music is one of my passions and to think of him living in his silent world is unimaginable. After checking out all the material on this site, there does not appear to be any mention of enabling a deaf person to hear but as we in this community know, miracles DO happen.

Also, being deaf it would be well nigh impossible for him to properly access SFQ
– which brings me to the big question:

Can someone here tell me if a deaf person could receive tangible benefit by proxy – without him even being aware of what is being done for him? How should I go about doing this?

Talking to his mother last week she said to me that a cure will not come in her son’s time. I responded that I was sure it WOULD – and quite soon too.

I thank you all in advance for any insight which may be helpful.