What is it like being deaf?

I'm writing a story about a character who has both profound hearing loss and agoraphobia (not that the latter is relevant to the question), and am looking for first hand accounts of people who are deaf. What is it like? I realize that it's different for everyone, but any account helps. Also, are there any particular characteristics that I should integrate with her personality/mannerisms? I want to come as close to realistic as possible. Thanks!