In response to Rosemh's post, it IS difficult to accept that you cannot hear the way norms do! Almost 40 years ago, I lost hearing (and balance) on my right side due to Meniere's. Sound was distorted, and I had lots of recruitment, so I was forced to quit playing in amateur classical groups. Because I believe that creative people simply must have an outlet, I began to spend some time painting, and learned to knit involved Aran pattern pieces. The knitting really helps during meetings, as it can keep my mind busy and help me slide past when I can't hear well enough to participate. Recently, after a year of being virtually deaf because Meniere's went bilateral, I achieved a remission and regained the level of hearing I'd had over a year ago. Amazing how what used to seem inadequate is now amazingly wonderful! After I've done more of the intense work needed to gain more stability, I intend to go back to Costco and see about getting an aid for my supposedly unaidable ear. Before I went deaf, the fitter at Costco had suggested that I might want to try that, but it didn't seem like it was worth the effort and money at the time. However, now I'd like to give it a shot. During the year that I was nearly totally deaf, I learned that I really can hear a little on the right, so it may be worth it. Over the years I've finally gotten to the point where I can at least listen to music (even though it doesn't sound right), but I don't like to attempt anything I don't know at all as I can't imagine the parts I'm missing. Still, I had been going to a few classical and jazz concerts the past three or four years. Baby steps!