8-year-old girls hear for first time

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Sisters smile and respond to mother's chatter

Updated: Friday, 07 Dec 2012, 1:04 PM EST
Published : Friday, 07 Dec 2012, 1:03 PM EST

OKLAHOMA CITY (CNN/KFOR) - After years of silence, two young girls are hearing the sound of their mother's voice for the first time.

In the video with this story, you can see the smile on Ruby Shasteen's face as she hears her mother speak.

The 8-year-old and her sister were adopted by the Shasteens from an orphanage in Ethiopia.

Recently, the girls were fitted with cochlear implants that connect directly to the hearing nerve -- making it possible for them to listen.

The girls' adoptive mom was excited to see them respond to her chatter.

"I had a huge lump in my throat,” said Chris Shasteen. “I mean, I really thought I was going to lose it."

Doctors said people of all ages can get cochlear implants and that insurance usually covers the cost.

Sisters smile and respond to mother's chatter