I went to visit my surgeon yesterday. After a quick hearing test, he has determined that I’m hearing better than I did before the surgery (February 27, 2008). The ear drum is looking good, I have to keep putting drops in it twice a day for the next two weeks, and I still can’t expose the ear to water. I’ll see him again in four weeks.
Monday was my first day back in my Gym class. Admittedly, I’m not the most athletic person, but I’m so happy to be back. For each day I sat out from Gym, I had to write a one page paper on a topic related to athletics, fitness, or health. I didn’t mind at first, but after the forth week I grew tired of the practice. Getting to go back to class with my friends and play kickball outside was wonderful!
My hearing is slowly getting better. Sounds are less sharp than they used to be, but I have a way to go. Higher-pitched sounds and my own yelling bring pain to my ear, but the surgeon told me that my nerve is still getting used to the amplified sounds. Remember, the problem with my right ear was a hole in the ear drum. The nerve that carries the sound information to my brain is in great condition, but it’s been accustomed to much softer sounds than what I’m hearing now. It’s overwhelmed.
This is all great news and reason for me to celebrate. I’m overjoyed, really. 
Hey Richard,
This has been very interesting to read. I had this procedure done on both ears prior to the age of 13 after 5 sets of ear tubes left holes in my eardrums that wouldn’t heal. 20 years since the 2nd surgical repair on my left year and 1 in office “glue a patch on the eardrum, the hole in my left eardrum has returned. I’m planning to have the surgery again soon as I really want to recover some hearing in my left ear. Fortunately my right is still in good shape.
This blog has both motivated and made me a bit more nervous. I somewhat remember the surgeries and recovery when I was younger – mainly remember missing out on tons of sports and swimming. I’m sure I’ll experience some of the things you did as well. The patch after surgery looks VERY familiar! I was told that wouldn’t be the same, but I think Dr’s like to just say that to lower the “worries”. Oh well, it’s a badge of honor.
Anyway, thanks for documenting this and sharing it with all of us. I hope after 2 years your hearing has returned to “normal”.
Take care…
Scott
Thanks so much, Scott. I appreciate you taking the time to write these kind words.