I Want to Fix Ears

Graeme Clark questioned authority, challenged the prevailing wisdom, and rejected the status quo. His knowledge, skill, doggedness, and faith resulted in the first recreation of a human sense.

Jennie Brand-Miller

Professor of Nutrition, author, and dual cochlear implant recipient

Graeme Clark is a giant of medical science, who deserves our admiration. As someone whose own hearing impairment has been alleviated over the decades by surgery and hearing aids, I can only begin to imagine what a cochlear implant means to those who have received one.

John Howard

Former Prime Minister of Australia

Remarkable insights from a remarkable scientist and admirable person. Inspired by the challenges faced by his father, Graeme Clark dedicated his career to providing the gift of hearing to profoundly deaf children and adults. Starting with compelling personal stories from his patients, Clark charts his inspirational journey to "fix ears." He chronicles his research accomplishments and medical advances, and also recounts his battles to overcome scientific scepticism, his tireless efforts to procure funding to support his work, and his reliance on the religious and ethical values that guided his investigations. For scientists, he conveys his commitment to interdisciplinary approaches, the importance of prioritising the needs and safety of patients, and the key role of effective academic-industry partnerships. For us all, he emphasises the importance of family, education, supportive colleagues, and, perhaps most importantly, life purpose.

Claire Pomeroy

President, Lasker Foundation USA

A giant of medical science tells the story of the invention of the bionic ear. After seeing his father struggle with deafness, Graeme Clark overcame obstacles and opposition to bring the gift of hearing to profoundly deaf children and adults.