Helena's Story
Our beautiful daughter Helena was born with left sided Microtia, as well as a skin tag on her left cheek, which was removed when she was 3 months old. It was certainly a shock and an emotional, unknown journey in the months that followed, where many tests were carried out. However thank God, we had the right support, good outcomes and currently she is flourishing in and outside of school.
At times the journey is still emotional and unknown, however less so. Helena is supported by GOSH under their Audiology team and periodically they discuss options of hearing implant and ear reconstruction, both of which we are currently undecided on. Helena wears a hearing aid to which I believe is imperative to her development and hearing tests tests show as much, however any permanent procedures we would like to wait until she is of an age to make her own decisions.
When she was born I was adamant to carry out these procedures as soon as possible, however I have surprised myself how much I have changed my thoughts on this. There is also a great teacher of the deaf supporting Helena. Helena is aware of her Microtia and we ensure that her difference is celebrated, without giving it too much focus at the same time; not always an easy task. We do believe it is extremely important for Helena to meet and have relationships with others who have Microtia, especially considering it such a rare condition.
Our aim is to instil much confidence in Helena and demonstrate that she can achieve anything, which she is already and embrace the difference as a source of strength – not weakness. Helena embraces her difference and quite honestly we are in awe of her. We believe that what on the face of it could look like a disadvantage, will work out for its good, which will in turn create much blessings as a result. The journey is an important one, building resilience, determination, humbleness and empathy within her. Microtia UK Charity has been imperative in our journey and I’m sure always will be; I am very grateful to them.
