What is it really like growing up Deaf in a hearing family? In this episode of What It’s Really Like, Chrissy Marshall shares her personal journey navigating deafness, family expectations, identity, and the complicated emotions surrounding cochlear implants. Chrissy opens up about getting a cochlear implant as an adult, the pressure she felt from her family, and what it was like being told that choosing not to hear was “selfish.” Together, we unpack the meaning behind that word, the impact of being made to feel like your disability is a burden, and the importance of understanding Deaf culture, communication, and personal choice. This is an honest conversation about the realities of growing up Deaf, navigating relationships with hearing family members, and finding confidence in who you are.