Read: Meet Wales’ first profoundly deaf midwife (via BBC)

The BBC has a story about Wales’ first profoundly deaf midwife, Sian Preddy.

Extract:

So far, I’ve completed two years at the University of South Wales.

The implant helps me hear things, such as monitors and emergency buzzers that are essential in midwifery.

I also have a specially-adapted stethoscope so I can hear babies’ heartbeats.

But I still face challenges.

When studying at the university, I’m in a class of 22 and I struggle to hear. And when out on placement, I have to explain to people that I’m profoundly deaf but can hear via an implant.

Sometimes, I’m meant to use a telephone, which is really difficult, but I try to avoid it if I can. The birthing room too can be challenging.

When a woman is in labour, it is important to be able to hear the monitors and heartbeat of the baby. But if you build up a good relationship with the woman, it helps things go fine.

Read the full article: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-43376926