Support & Advice
This section brings together helpful advice and peer support. The videos share real experiences and guidance that can help with everyday life. They offer reassurance practical tips and support at every stage of the journey.
It may useful to view Microtia UK's Positive Terminology page too here.
You can read more Life Stories on the Microtia UK website.
Click the YouTube icon on each video to view the description and question timestamps.
Children & Young People
Advice from a young person -
Isaac
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Isaac’s story highlights the importance of embracing microtia as part of your identity rather than seeing it as a disadvantage.
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He shares that it is important not to let others define your capabilities.
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He encourages young people to embrace their differences.
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Alkyoni shares that being different is something to be proud of, and you should love yourself just as you are.
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Alkyoni reminds us that it’s okay to speak up for yourself and that you don’t have to answer every question people ask.
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Alkyoni shows us that microtia doesn’t have to hold you back from making friends, trying new things and having fun!
Advice from a young person -
Alkyoni
Parents & Families
Parent and child thoughts on Microtia & Advice –
Isaac & Tammy
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Isaac shares that he likes having microtia because it makes him unique.
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Connecting with other young people and families with microtia can help you share experiences and learn from each other.
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You can choose how you explain your microtia to others, and helping people understand it can make a positive difference.
Parent reflections on: Early days and initial experiences
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Tina shares the uncertainty and questions she faced when her son was born with microtia.
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Zoe describes receiving her daughter's diagnosis and the support from clinicians.
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Zoe reflects on how her views on ear reconstruction changed as her daughter grew and she found support through Microtia UK.
Parent reflections on: Surprises or challenges along the journey
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Tina reflects on the challenges of making decisions for her son and the importance of being open and honest about microtia.
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Zoe shares her concerns about making the right decisions for her daughter while she is still young.
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Both reflect their children's development and how their happiness have reassured them as parents.
Parent reflections on: Engagement with wider family, friends and the Microtia UK network
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Tina reflects on how family and friends responded to her son's microtia and how their support helped her feel more comfortable.
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Zoe shares how she keeps family involved in her daughter's experiences and achievements.
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Zoe and Tina share how involvement in charity events and awareness activities has helped build connections.
Parent reflections on: Advice for new parents
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Zoe and Tina share their advice for new parents, encouraging them not to panic and to take things day by day.
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They share the importance of finding support and connecting with other families.
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How to help children build confidence, feel proud of their differences and feel supported as they grow up.
Getting involved with Microtia UK as an adult - Katie
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Katie shares that talking openly with trusted people about microtia has helped her build confidence when meeting new people.
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Connecting with others who have similar experiences can help you feel understood, supported and less alone.
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Microtia Mingle offers a welcoming community to share experiences and ask questions.
Adults
Getting charity support and sharing advice - Bethan
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Bethan shares that connecting with the Microtia UK community helped her realise she was not alone.
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Microtia does not define your abilities or limit what you can achieve, so believe in yourself and do not let others tell you what you cannot do.
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Speak up for what you need, ask questions and find a supportive healthcare team that listens to you and respects your choices.
From a Professional
Advice from charity Changing Faces –
Caroline
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Caroline explains how Changing Faces supports people with a visible difference and their families.
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The support available through helplines, online webinars, peer support and advice resources.
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Why it’s important to know you’re not alone and that support is available at any stage.
How to use The Visible Difference Parenting Toolkit - Maia
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Maia explains how the Visible Difference Support Hub offers resources to help children and families.
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Talking openly about microtia can help you feel more prepared for comments about your ears.
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Maia shares tips to help you talk about microtia with people like teachers and friends in your life.
Additional Resources
For more information and support, please
explore the following websites and resources.
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