15/12/2025
Resist the urge to withdraw!
Having navigated my own journey with hearing loss, I’d like to share a few principles that have helped me cope:
- Acknowledge and express your emotions and communicate with trusted loved ones.
- Acknowledge the challenges associated with noisy environments and the inaccessibility of gatherings, but hold onto hope.
- Resist the urge to withdraw.
I’m grateful for the unwavering support of my loved ones and friends, who have demonstrated patience, understanding, and genuine empathy. Their presence has been a steady source of comfort.
If you’re looking for support or a peer to talk to, consider joining the Fanie Dreams Movement. We are available to chat; send an email or WhatsApp to faniedreams@gmail.com or 064 757 5528.(only text messages)
Fanie du Toit
National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities
www.faniedreams.co.za
Image credit: Meta AI
