Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Obituary: Graham Fraser

Lord Ashley
Tuesday 22 February 1994 19:02 EST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

James Graham Fraser, otolaryngologist: born London 1 May 1936; Consultant Otolaryngologist, University College Hospitals 1971-94; Patron, National Association of Deafened People 1986-94; President, British Cochlear Implant Group 1990-93; died London 8 February 1994.

GRAHAM FRASER transformed my life and that of many others, writes Lord Ashley of Stoke. A visionary, who saw the practical possibilities of cochlear implants, he sought and fought for a national implant programme in Britain.

He had to contend with the doubts of some surgeons, the refusal of the National Health Service to help initially, and lack of funds. That he succeeded is a tribute to his far-sightedness, determination and courage. Britain's cochlear implant programme is a great memorial to Graham Fraser, and the gratitude and affection of his patients cannot be measured.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in