Joy as boy overcomes hearing loss after 10 years struggle

Well-wisher Collins Lasiemwa (standing), Sydney Onzere and Roy Igunza. [Martin Ndiema, Standard]

Sydney Onzere, a 13-year-old pupil who battled hearing complications for a decade, has returned to school after receiving a special bone-conduction hearing aid also known as HearNu.

This non-surgical bone conduction hearing device bypasses the physical ear, sending messages directly to the brain.

Clad in a charcoal grey short, ash grey shirt and a black tie, Sydney walks confidently, sporting a headset hearing aid and a receiver in his left hand, his face lit up with a broad smile.

A teacher's New Year greeting leaves Sydney responding effortlessly, astonishing both the teacher and pupils.

Amidst shared laughter and smiles, a new chapter unfolds after ten years of hearing loss, promising a brighter future for the boy who aspires to be a shipmaster.

The bell rings and Sydney hurries to class waving with enthusiasm.

The Grade Six pupil's brother, Roy Igunza, describes the moment as a "gift of the new year 2024," with tears of joy streaming down his cheeks.

Sydney expresses eagerness to attend classes every day and his dream of becoming a ship captain.

He says the hearing aid empowers him to cross roads safely, enjoy children's programs on television and radio, and actively engage in learning.

Sydney's hearing impairment traces back to his early years at Omuhini village. At the age of 5, while attending Jack and Jill Primary School, teachers raised concern after he struggled to hear and interact inside and outside the classroom.

Examination at Kitale County Hospital revealed damage to his right eardrum, rendering it non-functional. Sydney's left ear faced obstructions, requiring loud communication.

Initial attempts with an air conductor hearing aid proved uncomfortable, affecting his performance. The family, faced with financial challenges, struggled to secure a replacement.

However, Express Nova Limited, during a medical camp in Kimwondo in Endebess Constituency, donated a non-surgical bone conduction hearing device worth $1,000 (Sh150,000) to Sydney.

Express Nova Limited officer Collins Lasiemwa said they were moved by Sydney's case and aimed to restore his hearing, allowing him to pursue his education and dream of becoming a shipmaster.

Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha commended the donation, emphasizing the transformative impact on Sydney's life.

Nakhumicha expressed joy at grassroots services and urged families to engage speech experts for therapy.

"As a mother, I am very happy because of the one case that I have seen that we have somebody who has donated a hearing aid to a child in grade 6," she said.

Lasiemwa explained that the bone conduction technology, features a receiver worn like a watch, sending signals to the inner ear through a headset.

With 72 languages available, Sydney can choose the language for communication or learning. Waterproof and versatile, the device supports Sydney in various activities, including swimming-a crucial skill for his future aspirations.

Pinto Atudo, the director of Jack and Jill School praised Sydney's resilience and assured him of continued support in his academic journey.

"Sydney's return to the world of sound marks not only a personal triumph, but a testament to the impact community support and technological advancements can have on shaping a brighter future for individuals facing challenges," added Atudo.