PLEA FROM A DEAF GRANNY

To my dear children and grandchildren, I am deaf. I always have been but it has got worse as I get older. I know it is annoying to be asked to repeat what you say to me, but I have always been interested in you and your opinions.

I know if I were blind, and I’m very glad I’m not, you would be kind and considerate and help me navigate life and obstacles. But you act as though deafness is an irritation not a handicap.

Deafness doesn’t mean stupidity. I get very distressed when you say “I said” before you repeat yourself, or make rude gestures with your hands. Because you make me feel inadequate, I work till I am exhausted to sew, cook, wash and do whatever you need to make up for my disability. I love you all dearly, and will always do my best but please can I have a little consideration.

I have been to specialists, have hearing aids and nothing helps, but your attitude can. You can help me by speaking clearly, standing in the light so I can lip-read, never putting your hands over your mouth when you speak. Be near me when you speak, I don’t mean in my face, but I will never hear you if you are 20 metres away.

It would also help if you don’t gesticulate, I am concentrating on your face. You say sometimes I shout. Deaf people often do that, we imagine people hear as little as we do.

Just remember, I am not stupid. My intelligence and ability to work did not fade with my hearing. I want to be able to participate in life as I always have, and I will always be interested in what you do with your lives. Please help to make it easier for me. GRAN, EMAIL