Sasha Gardner and Melissa Tumblin talk about Microtia and Atresia

Sasha Gardner and Melissa Tumblin talk about microtia and atresia

Recently, I had the opportunity to catch up with UK Model, Sasha Gardner, and talk about microtia and atresia, on her podcast – Sasha Says! Sasha was born with microtia and atresia and she has been working to raise awareness about our rare cause and talk about anti-bullying on her podcast. Both of us have known about each other for the past 15 years and we finally had the chance to catch up and talk about her work in the community and mine, as well as sharing our experiences with the community when it comes to microtia and atresia. It was so wonderful to finally meet Sasha! It was like catching up with a good friend! We hope our talk will help families in our community! ❤️ 👂

I am grateful for connecting with Sasha and to discuss the journey of microtia and atresia from both a mother’s perspective and an individual having being born with microtia and atresia. Sasha shares that “In this episode, Melissa Tumblin — founder of Ear Community and driving force behind Ally’s Act in Congress — shares her journey from the shock of her daughter Ally’s diagnosis with microtia and aural atresia to becoming a global advocate. Melissa opens up about the early days of confusion in the hospital, the lack of clear information from doctors, and the emotional rollercoaster of raising a child with hearing difference. She explains why she created Ear Community, how she built a worldwide support network for families, and the impact of National Microtia and Atresia Awareness Day.

We also dive into Ally’s Act, the federal legislation Melissa has been championing in Congress to ensure consistent insurance coverage for children and adults who need access to life-changing hearing technology.

💛 Whether you’re a parent of a child with microtia, an adult navigating hearing loss, or someone passionate about advocacy and inclusion, Melissa’s story is one of strength, resilience, and change.”
– Sasha Gardner

Watch and share:
🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjYuNI2MBXh-YTc-2MLfALw
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6cf3RREAL3H5G9loWDyneN?si=dr671hk9StiezEL2yzPOTw

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sashasayspodcast?igsh=MXdwdDh4MTJoM3BjaA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Thank you again to Sasha for creating a platform to help spread awareness and education about microtia and aural atresia as well as a safe place to have helpful discussions for our community!
Melissa Tumblin
Ear Community

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