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It seems I can get so far relying on my previous experience of what people say in simple social situations such as buying something.

It is when there are deviations from the expected script that my hearing impairment becomes a real barrier.

Back in the street I cautiously cross the road, feeling altogether less confident and capable at negotiating the traffic with my ears blocked.

Upon reaching Ashley Square with each of my footfalls booming weirdly in my head, I stride up to someone and ask them the way to the library.

I lean in towards them to make out the reply and I am pleased to recognise the directions. "Straight down the road about a quarter of a mile and it's on your left."

Buoyed by this success, I move straight on to a market stall and try to buy some oranges. This time the market trader spies the conspicuous blue bungs in my ears and makes allowances.

Staring right at me and exaggeratedly enunciating every word he enables us to discuss how many satsumas you get for half a pound.

Although the public clearly want to help, I sense there is a common response to hearing impaired people. On seeing a hearing aid, often the assumption is that the person is not only deaf, but somehow mentally challenged too.

Approaching the end of my stint as a deaf person, Suzanne and I head back to her treatment room at Dollond and Aitchison, buying a packet of crisps on the way.

Once inside I phone the office to let them know I'll be back shortly, but it proves to be a one way conversation. Despite recognising the voice on the other end of the line, I can not decipher a word of what they are saying.

Stripped of all the visual aids to communication, holding a conversation becomes impossible.

Finally it is time for my hearing to be restored to normal. With one quick tug at each ear the silicone is removed and it is like resurfacing from the bottom of a deep pool.

Instantly I am myself again and Terry tells me straight away my voice has gone from a whisper back to its normal volume.

It was not a whole day and I was not completely deaf, but it is an experience I am not likely to forget.