Alkyoni's Story
I was born in 2015. My parents notice there was something wrong with my right ear but not even the doctors could identify what it was. My dad googled it and they found out the condition was called microtia. My parents were worried for my development. I was referred to Evelina hospital to the microtia and atresia department. I have worn a hearing aid since I was six months old. I was not aware of my condition until I was four years old. I have been treated in the same way as my brother who has no microtia. At my school everyone is kind and gentle to me. I feel privileged to have many friends, family and two amazing cats.
I love swimming, and for my age, I think I am really good. I started gymnastics when I was just three years old, I have been in several competitions and I’ve won three gold medals, a bronze medal and a fifth place. Surprisingly I became so good at beam, a skill that requires balance and coordination, something that children with microtia struggle with, but not me. I learned how to ride a bike with no stabilisers by the time I was three too. I know how to ice-skating and I love roller-skating to. I am left handed when I write but right handed when I use scissors. I understand and speak Spanish, Greek and English.
Sometimes I wonder why I have microtia but that doesn’t stop me from having adventures in life. For new parents who have children with microtia I would like to tell them not to worry and to be loving and understanding with them. Microtia becomes an issue if you let it be. I love myself and my little ear just the way it is. I am proud of who I am.
