You are fortunate to be a candidate for cochlear implants. I was implanted with one CI when I was your age, even though I qualified for 2 then. I am amazed at how well my brain has adjusted to being bimodal (hearing aid and CI). I test extremely well when using both technologies. I've thought seriously about having a 2nd CI, but am told, after extensive testing, that I do too well to qualify since my test results indicate I'm hearing 90+ percent when using both HA & CI. Interestingly, when I remove one technology, it doesn't matter which one, I do poorly. The brain is amazing. I encourage you to go for a CI. Good Luck. PS: Get involved with HLAA If you're not already a member. HLAA advocates for you. If more people would become involved, we just might change the insurance issue.