Adding Sound: The difference ear implants can make

Liam works with his father to construct a propane fire pit.

by Miles Painter

Six-year-old Liam Powell’s life would be very different today had he not received cochlear ear implants. The device translates sound into electrical signals to be interpreted by his brain, allowing him to hear.

At the age of three, Liam was diagnosed with profound hearing loss. This short documentary explores the impact the ability to hear has had on Liam’s development and how it has changed his parents’ hopes for his future.

Photo at top: Liam works with his father to build a propane fire pit. (Miles Painter/MEDILL)