The aim of Deaf Awareness Week is to promote understanding and acceptance of Deaf people, their language, and their culture. It is estimated that there are approximately 466 million Deaf and hard of hearing people worldwide - and I am one of those people.
In terms of my hearing loss, I have what is called - Bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. It is a type of hearing loss that affects both ears and is caused by damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve. Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when there is damage to the sensory cells in the cochlea, which is the part of the inner ear responsible for transmitting sound signals to the brain. This damage can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, aging, exposure to loud noise, certain medications, and infections.
Bilateral sensorineural hearing loss can have a significant impact on a person's ability to communicate and interact with others. It can make it difficult to understand speech, particularly in noisy environments, and can also affect a person's ability to hear music or other sounds. It can also lead to social isolation, depression, and other mental health issues. Treatment for bilateral sensorineural hearing loss typically involves the use of hearing aids or cochlear implants. I first got hearing aids when I was around 22, and I remember hearing my feet move along the floor! What a revelation... I still hate the rustle of a paper bag though.
So I wear hearing aids and I also lip read. I focus on the visual things and have to rely on these senses a lot. Being in a loud environment such as a restaurant is tough, and watching TV with subtitles is a must! I once used to find it easier to come out as gay than talk about my hearing loss. But here are my, obvious, blue hearing aids.
I've done a couple of stories for RNID - Royal National Institute for Deaf People is here too! Find them here. Part 1 and Part2 . They were so helpful to me when I needed them, I'd recommend contacting them if you need it.
Deaf Awareness Week is an opportunity to raise awareness of the challenges and to promote the inclusion and acceptance of Deaf people in society.
So why not take this opportunity to learn more about the Deaf community and how you can support them? Want to ask me more about my story, get in touch!
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