At a very young age, I was hospitalised due to having E.Coli, due to my age I can't recall what happened to me.
However as I grew up and spoke to close family and doctors, the pieces of the puzzle were able to be put together.
What I mean is from the outside looking in I look perfectly fine, however due to being struck down with E.Coli, I was left with hearing loss in my right ear. I've never been one to announce my hearing loss, which at times makes me come across rude. If someone catches me at the wrong time, or if I'm focusing on something, I simply can't hear anyone unless they make themself visible.
I do find myself struggling in certain environments due to my hearing loss as I've got older, which close family and friends have come to learn, but they understand so it's made it easier.
As I got older, I always wanted to give back and try to be a small part of the bigger picture, therefore as a keen runner, I wear the meningitis running vest to all my races, I've run three marathons and every time, I try to raise money and awareness about meningitis, which has had a positive outcome.
As a result, I was privileged to becoming an ambassador for the charity. I use my social media to help share information and to raise awareness as there is so much people who don’t know or understand.
If I can help at least one person with information and where to find it, then for me that's a positive.
Martin Yaxley
February 2024