Help me hear the world again

My name is Bree Bates. I’m 22 years old and live with a disease called nuerofibromatosis type 2.

Over time my hearing has further decreased due to tumors on the nerves of both ears and now I struggle to hear on a day to day basis. This is impacting my career as a nurse with colleagues/patients and my home/social life. I can’t hear the TV anymore or have successful social interactions with people.

Having hearing loss at my age has become very scary for me and as I result I get social anxiety to communicate with anyone. I have an 8 month old son and want to be able to be the best mum I can be as he grows and wants to talk to me.

This means I need hearing aids. I have an appointment on the 20/02 to look at my options. To have quality ones that will assist me they start at around $6,000. Unfortunately I can only get funding for $1,000. I would greatly appreciate any donations so I can live a fulfilled happy life again :)