Harry has Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)

Since the age of 4, Harry has consistantly failed his hearing tests. To try and rectify this, Harry has undergone surgeries for three sets of grommets, a tonsillectomy and adenoid removal. Unfortunately, four years on Harry remains unable to hear clearly and struggles in the classroom both academically and socially. Being unable to hear is extremely tiring especially when a child is trying their best. Harry has been falling behind in his reading, spelling and writing since Year 2 and has become an exhausted and stressed out wee boy!

It has been heartbreaking watching Harry's confidence and grades decline but we have recently had a successful diagnosis of Auditory Processing Disorder or APD, through the supportive team at SoundSkills. It is such a relief to now be able to help Harry.

Auditory Processing Disorder or APD is a hearing disorder in which the ears themselves process sound normally but the brain has difficulty interpreting sounds. Harry developed this disorder due to his hearing issues over his formative years.

To retrain the auditory nerves and regain more efficient hearing, Harry is now wearing the Remote Microphone Hearing Aids in class and at home. Of course everything comes at a cost and is only funded by the Ministry of Education when a child's learning or behaviour is significantly effected. As parent's we would prefer not to act on the "ambulance at the bottom of the cliff" approach!

So any financial assistance would be greatly appreciated, as we are struggling to pay for Harry's Remote Microphone Hearing Aid system ($5,250) having already covered the cost of assessment, fitting and educational management fees of $2,630.

Thanks from the Sleeman family x