She managed with hearing aids for more than 50 years, but when she experienced a dramatic loss in one ear Ms Phillips visited an ENT specialist who recommended a Cochlear implant. Eighteen months later she was referred to Mater Cochlear Clinic in Brisbane and finally received the life-changing implant in April 2014. A Coast great-grandmother who received a life-changing Cochlear implant seven years ago said the device has helped take her life back, and take up hobbies like cycling. Since then Ms Phillips said she has been able to connect with friends, family and her community again. Her relationships with her sons, grandchildren and great-grandchildren have deepened tremendously she said.