Everything changes when Ruben abruptly loses his hearing right before a concert. Ruben conceals his condition from Lou and secretly seeks medical attention, and learns that his hearing situation is dire. An ear doctor informs him that he only has a small percentage of his hearing left and he won’t ever regain it. As far as potential solutions, the doctor alludes to an expensive implant surgery that could be a possibility down the road. The news devastates Reuben, who initially goes into denial hoping to continue the tour despite not being able to hear the music he’s playing. It’s revealed that Ruben is a recovering heroin addict and the band’s manager, fearing a relapse, recommends Ruben check into an addiction treatment facility that specializes in helping people who are deaf.