File This under "THAT SUCKS!"

[tracilicious]

Originally Posted by wendybeth

There is a big controversy over cochlear implants in the Deaf community- the opponents say there is nothing wrong with being Deaf, and I agree, but there is no denying the safety aspect of being able to hear. Former Miss America Heather Whitestone got nailed by the Deaf for 'selling out' when she got implanted, but she did it so she would be able to hear if her children needed her in an emergency. This is just sad- I'd be curious to know why she was walking along the tracks, and if she was even aware of the risk. You'd be surprised at what you don't learn when you can't hear.

I've always been a bit confused by opponents of implants. I know that the deaf have a community unto themselves, and many don't feel that being deaf is a disability. I don't see how being deaf isn't a disadvantage though. I don't think you'd have the same reaction to blind people have corrective surgery if it was available to them.

I understand if some don't want to do it for themselves (or, of course, aren't able to), but to get mad at Miss America for wanting to hear her children is ludicrous. Or for wanting to hear at all. Being able to hear is a good thing.

I too am puzzled by her being on the tracks at all. I wonder why she didn't feel the train coming.