I took some classes in sign language when I was in my early teens because I was told that I would be completely deaf very early. But I never really wanted to learn.
Stephanie BeachamMy worst holiday was in Athens when I was a young drama student at Rada in 1965. I ran out of money. I had my things stolen and I wasn't able to speak a word of the language.
Stephanie BeachamI have to concentrate more intently when people speak. I always have to position myself on their right side so that I can hear out of my left ear. I sometimes get a crick in my neck from listening. But I don't there's too much else.
Stephanie BeachamPeople keep asking me if I'll marry again. It's as if after you've had one car crash you want another.
Stephanie BeachamWe all live in fear of cancer, but to be told you have skin cancer was terrifying.
Stephanie BeachamWhen I was young I used to smother myself with olive oil mixed with a dash of vinegar to keep the flies away and lay in the sunshine for hours on end. But we knew no better then. Now we know how stupid that was.
Stephanie BeachamWhen I look in the mirror, I sometimes think I'm getting old, but then I have two generations behind me so that helps puts things into perspective. I am a grandmother now, but at least my nine-year-old grandson Jude calls me Glamma and not Granny.
Stephanie BeachamOne of the reasons I wanted to teach deaf children was because it made me very sad that they spoke so clumsily and that they moved with less grace that I knew was possible of deaf people.
Stephanie BeachamI'm lucky that most of the time I'm on location in amazing places. Most of the time, I don't need holidays, I just stop working.
Stephanie BeachamWhen I got into the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, a doctor told me to give up the course as I'd be totally deaf within a couple of years. But I refused to give in.
Stephanie BeachamI think the deafness affects me more than I realise I think it makes me more tired. I loathe parties. I attend, smile and leave.
Stephanie Beacham