‘If anything, it’s made me more successful’
Daniela Messenger, 42, is a revenue accountant from London.
As my mother is deaf, I had a 50% chance of being born with hearing issues. But, initially, it was thought I could hear normally. It was only when I was seven, and doctors realised I couldn’t hear certain high-frequency sounds, that anyone realised there was something wrong. Until then, my teacher had branded me as lazy and even made me wear a dunce’s cap at times – when actually I couldn’t hear instructions properly.
Over the years, I learnt to lip-read and developed tricks to cope with ordinary life – such as keeping an eye on the netball referee in case I missed a whistle. Most of the time, I didn’t feel any different from other children – although I do remember being upset when a boy in my class asked about my ‘funny voice’.
My hearing impairment didn’t stop me doing what I wanted, though. After finishing college at 18, I took a role in a finance department and studied accountancy in the evenings. In 2004, I met my husband, Steve, 43, and in 2011, I found out I was expecting – we were overjoyed.
Then, at six months pregnant, I was diagnosed with pre-eclampsia. I suffered swollen legs, but also began to feel as if my ears were blocked, like being on a plane.
At 35 weeks, I gave birth to my daughter, Isabella, after being induced. Afterwards, my other symptoms subsided, but I was left profoundly deaf.
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der May 04, 2021-Ausgabe von WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent ? Anmelden
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der May 04, 2021-Ausgabe von WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent? Anmelden
7 things your GP WANTS YOU TO KNOW
Stay healthier for longer, whatever your age, with these expert insights
Podcasts TO PICK
Try our top suggestions for a spot of audio entertainment
Your wellbeing
LATEST HEALTH SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR MIND AND BODY
Simple bathroom UPDATES
Create a spa-like feel with these easy additions
Darling shrubs OF MAY
Floral fireworks for early summer
Pet perfect BREAKS
Treat yourself and your canine companion to a pampering escape
'Dyslexia is my SUPERPOWER!'
Matt Baker on his love for the countryside, health and life after The One Show
GARDEN notes
Vibrant annuals and fruit and veg
Springtime IN VENICE
A weekend in this floating city is a feast for the senses
Your wellbeing
LATEST HEALTH SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR MIND AND BODY