Post by ZandraJoi on Nov 9, 2020 9:11:24 GMT -5
"Microtia Awareness Day dedicates November 9th to spreading hope and knowledge concerning a congenital disability, which derives its name from the Latin terms for little ears. Mark the calendar and think of the number 9 as the shape of an ear.
1 in 9,000
Approximately one child in every 9,000 is born with Microtia. Microtia occurs when the ear or ears do not fully develop during the 1st trimester of pregnancy. While Microtia is diagnosed at birth, there is no understanding of why Microtia occurs. Those born with Microtia face hearing loss, facial challenges, and the longing for social acceptance.
For most parents, the day of their child’s birth turns from celebration to concern and uncertainty. Initially, aside from the arrival of their beautiful new baby, they notice the outward signs of the condition – a small, curiously shaped ear or no ear at all. Depending on where these families live, doctors and nurses may be well versed in the condition. They quickly educate and prepare parents, reassuring them. In other regions, however, the condition is rare. Misinformation or lack of information quickly evaporates any remaining sense of celebration that accompanies a birth.
Often when answers aren’t forthcoming, hopes and dreams become overshadowed by unnecessary challenges to a joyous occasion. However, there are options and support! Microtia Awareness Day promotes public awareness. Additionally, the day spreads hope that future generations of families will leave the hospital armed with more answers than questions and their dreams for their child intact.
Don’t Know They’re Different
When children are born, they don’t know they are any different from anyone else. Many with Microtia share similar stories of curious stares, bullying, or awkwardness. Individual personalities, social conditioning, available treatments, and bullying all impact how every child develops and copes as an adult. By removing unnecessary boundaries and replacing them with resources, tools, and support, we can eliminate bullying and clear the way for an even more successful future.
In addition to self-acceptance and loving oneself, advancements in technology improve the lives of those with Microtia."
My notes: I never heard of this before. Have you?
1 in 9,000
Approximately one child in every 9,000 is born with Microtia. Microtia occurs when the ear or ears do not fully develop during the 1st trimester of pregnancy. While Microtia is diagnosed at birth, there is no understanding of why Microtia occurs. Those born with Microtia face hearing loss, facial challenges, and the longing for social acceptance.
For most parents, the day of their child’s birth turns from celebration to concern and uncertainty. Initially, aside from the arrival of their beautiful new baby, they notice the outward signs of the condition – a small, curiously shaped ear or no ear at all. Depending on where these families live, doctors and nurses may be well versed in the condition. They quickly educate and prepare parents, reassuring them. In other regions, however, the condition is rare. Misinformation or lack of information quickly evaporates any remaining sense of celebration that accompanies a birth.
Often when answers aren’t forthcoming, hopes and dreams become overshadowed by unnecessary challenges to a joyous occasion. However, there are options and support! Microtia Awareness Day promotes public awareness. Additionally, the day spreads hope that future generations of families will leave the hospital armed with more answers than questions and their dreams for their child intact.
Don’t Know They’re Different
When children are born, they don’t know they are any different from anyone else. Many with Microtia share similar stories of curious stares, bullying, or awkwardness. Individual personalities, social conditioning, available treatments, and bullying all impact how every child develops and copes as an adult. By removing unnecessary boundaries and replacing them with resources, tools, and support, we can eliminate bullying and clear the way for an even more successful future.
In addition to self-acceptance and loving oneself, advancements in technology improve the lives of those with Microtia."
My notes: I never heard of this before. Have you?