Thirteen-year-old Micah Classen from Blackheath is living proof that early detection of hearing loss can open doors to a bright future. The confident Grade 8 learner, who dreams of becoming an audiologist, has thrived academically despite being diagnosed with moderate to severe hearing loss at age four.
Her inspiring journey came into focus during World Hearing Day on 3 March, when the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness highlighted the critical importance of early hearing screening for all children.
Micah’s story began at Tygerberg Hospital, where she was diagnosed and fitted with hearing aids. She then received therapy support through the Carel du Toit CHAT Centre, demonstrating how the province’s integrated health system works to support children with hearing challenges.
“Be patient and confident and do not feel insecure, because God made you in his own special way,” Micah shares as advice for other children with hearing difficulties. “And to the people who can hear, try to understand more, because we are just like you.”
Her success reflects what’s possible when families, schools, and healthcare teams collaborate.
Early screening saves futures
According to Chéri van Zyl, chief audiologist at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, early intervention is key to preventing hearing loss from affecting a child’s communication, learning, and confidence.
“A child’s ability to hear shapes their entire developmental journey,” Van Zyl explains. “When hearing difficulties are identified early, we can intervene before they affect development.
Early action truly changes outcomes. “The most effective approach is hearing screening within a baby’s first month of life – a process that’s quick, gentle, and painless, available at public health facilities across the province.
Parents and caregivers should seek assessment if they notice:
- Babies who don’t startle to loud sounds;
- Limited or delayed babbling;
- Delayed or unclear speech;
- Frequent ear infections;
- Children turning up device volumes excessively;
- Difficulty following classroom instructions.
“If something feels off, it’s always worth checking,” advises Van Zyl. “Babies often respond to facial expressions rather than sound, so objective screening is the only reliable way to detect hearing loss early.”
Care for all ages
While early detection is crucial, hearing health matters throughout life. Megan Davis-Ferguson, assistant director of audiology at Groote Schuur Hospital, explains that their integrated approach supports residents from newborn screening through adult care.
“We help each person reach their full communication potential through comprehensive assessments and hearing device management,” she says. “With the right referral pathways and timely intervention, we ensure residents receive appropriate care at the right level.”
If you’re concerned about hearing loss in your family, start at your nearest clinic or community health centre. Primary healthcare staff will assess concerns and refer you to appropriate hospital services if needed. Specialist audiology and ENT services at regional and tertiary hospitals are accessed by referral only, ensuring that specialised care remains available for those who need it most.
Supporting children with hearing challenges requires community-wide effort. Families can help by seeking prompt treatment for ear infections, reducing exposure to loud noise, and supporting routine hearing screening.
Teachers play a vital role by encouraging consistent use of hearing devices, seating affected children near the front of classrooms, and using clear visual and verbal communication.
A brighter future
As Van Zyl emphasises, “Every child deserves the chance to grow in a world full of sound. Together, families, teachers, communities, and healthcare teams can ensure no child is left behind.”
Untreated hearing loss affects speech, literacy, confidence, and social development. By prioritising early hearing care, we strengthen not only individual children but our entire community.
For Micah and countless other children, early detection and intervention have opened doors to unlimited possibilities – proving that with the right support, hearing challenges need never hold a child back.
If you have concerns about hearing loss, don’t delay. Contact your nearest clinic for assessment. Early action leads to better outcomes.
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