No More Laughing at the Deaf Boy
A Technological Adventure between Silicon Valley and the Alps
Hearing loss affects millions, yet many sufferers avoid seeking help. This narrative follows a man who undertook the challenge and invented a highly successful middle ear implant. Geoffrey Ball's journey in technology began in Silicon Valley, the cradle of innovation, and led him to the mountains of Austria, where he continues his work. Diagnosed with deafness early on, Ball recognized that sign language and conventional hearing aids weren't sufficient. Despite being proficient in lipreading, he sought a better solution. His disability never hindered him; he embraced a Renaissance-like spirit with diverse interests in literature, sports, and music, alongside his entrepreneurial and inventive talents. The author introduces a vibrant cast of characters—family, friends, surfing buddies, lab rats, business partners, and a brilliant mentor who helped launch his career, as well as the woman who played a crucial role in his success. The narrative blends insights into technology, funding, and business with personal anecdotes, detailing the ups and downs of his journey. Today, his groundbreaking devices enhance the lives of hearing-impaired individuals worldwide every hour. No longer is the deaf boy the subject of ridicule, and Geoffrey Ball's story is far from over.

