Parents of bionic ear toddler ‘elated but exhausted’ after successful op

The parents of the first deaf Irish toddler to get a pioneering ‘bionic ear’ implant described themselves as “elated and exhausted” last night after surgeons told them the seven-hour operation “couldn’t have gone better”.

Calum Geary, 3, from Ballyhooly, Co Cork, went into the operating theatre at Manchester University Hospital at 9am yesterday. He emerged at 4pm after surgeons, led by Professor Richard Ramsden, consultant Simon Freeman and Meath-born ear, nose, and throat specialist Fergal Quinn, completed the task.

“The surgeons were very happy with the operation. It was a major relief to us. There were surgeons from all over Europe present as observers,” said Calum’s father, Andrew.

Only 144 children in the world have undergone the intricate procedure.

Calum, who was born deaf, had missing nerve implants inserted in his brain. These were attached to a box in his ear, which will pick up sounds.

If successful, the toddler will need intensive help interpreting what he is hearing, which will necessitate a trip to a US clinic.

“The staff at the hospital have been so helpful and professional. The surgical team went out of their way to do everything possible and ensure Calum’s needs were met,” said Andrew.

“We want to say a huge thanks to everybody who has helped to fundraise for this and for the messages of support we got from literally all around the world. People were praying for Calum and we would have been totally lost without their support.”

It is expected the toddler will remain in the Manchester hospital for up to two weeks before he goes home.

The HSE paid for the operation, which cost €50,000, but thousands more euro are needed for Calum’s aftercare. Donations can be made to the Calum Geary Trust, Ulster Bank, Fermoy, Co Cork or Ulster Bank sort code: 985725, account number: 10516017.