The Deaf Girl

Being in both the deaf and hearing world has given Melissa Kilner so much opportunity in learning how to speak, read lips and use sign language - they are two different worlds with different cultures. You don't realise how lucky you are to be in both worlds with so much to live for, and it's such an amazing life in between.

Having been born profoundly deaf, Melissa wished she knew more about how to accept herself from a young age, and learn how to experience, see and feel things without the sounds. She is so grateful she got to go out there into the world, exploring with her own eyes and speaking with her own voice after 20 years of speech therapy. 

Melissa has trained staff in the largest spa in the world, travelled the world on her own and worked and lived overseas. As a nanny she looked after four children at the age of 21 on the other side of the world. 

Not letting her deafness stop her, she got into the fitness world, trained in many different fitness fields, and competed in bodybuilding competitions, all of which has given her so much strength in her life. 

If Melissa had 'listened' to those who told her she couldn't, her life would never have been as full as it is. She learned how to figure things out and remember that it is her life and no one else's. 

Melissa shows great determination, courage, respect, and dedication - wanting to help families who have deaf children, and inspire kids to figure things out. 

As Melissa always says - listen to your own heart and go for it.