Chesterfield author to become face of new '˜runny ears' campaign

A Chesterfield-based author has become a face of a campaign to raise awareness of a rare condition called '˜runny ears'.
Chesterfield-based author Melanie Hancock.Chesterfield-based author Melanie Hancock.
Chesterfield-based author Melanie Hancock.

Melanie Hancock, 51, grew up having to deal with a smelly discharge from her ears: a problem caused by chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) - a chronic inflammation of the middle ear and mastoid cavity - and exacerbated by her wearing hearing aids since the age of five.

At times the discharge was almost constant, affecting Melanie’s confidence and her self esteem.

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But then in her mid 40s, Melanie was fitted with the first of two cochlear baha bone conduction hearing implants - improving her hearing and reducing the recurrence of infections.

Melanie said: “My life has changed dramatically. My hearing is so good, my speech has improved tremendously, ear infections are rare nowadays, I feel more balanced and I have gained heaps in confidence.

Her positive experience has inspired Melanie - a former radiographer - to write a children’s book about a deaf girl fitted with baha technology before she embarks on a new career, possibly as an audiologist assistant.

“It was difficult as a teenager,” Melanie said. “My confidence and self esteem were low, as the hearing and ear infections made me feel isolated and made social and making new friends difficult. I did have a small group of good friends, who did support me.”

More information at: www.iwanttohear.com

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