National Microtia Awareness Day dedicates November 9th to raising awareness about a congenital disability, that derives from the Latin term for little ears.
Approximately 1 in 9,000 people have microtia, and 1 in 10 of these people have bilateral microtia; this means that they suffer with deafness in both ears.
Microtia occurs when the ear or ears do not fully develop during the first trimester of pregnancy. Microtia is diagnosed at birth, but the reason for Microtia is unknown. People born with Microtia face deafness, facial challenges, and a longing for social acceptance.
When a child is born, they don't know that they are different from others. Many people with Microtia share similar stories about curious stares, bullying, or awkwardness. An individual’s personality, social conditioning, available treatments, and bullying, all affect how every child grows up, and how they deal with their disability as an adult.
By removing unnecessary boundaries and replacing them with resources, tools and support, we can eliminate bullying and clear the way for a brighter future.
In addition to self-acceptance and confidence, technological advances are improving the lives of people with Microtia. Advances in helping people with Microtia are:
-hearing aids
-implants
-surgical procedures
-bio-ears to create new outer ears
-3D printing
However, research requires time, experimentation, and assistance. The possibility of undeveloped 3D printing is also promising!
People with Microtia are a great community of people. Their stories reiterate, that the most significant progress of all, with or without technology, medical procedures and innovative research, is human support, cognition and acceptance.
If you want to support the Microtia community or find out more, please check out the Microtia UK charity: