We all live in fear of cancer, but to be told you have skin cancer was terrifying.

But as far as my work is concerned, I see no impediment, and various advantages, to being deaf.

When 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.

We all live in fear of cancer, but to be told you have skin cancer was terrifying.

Nothing is going to improve my hearing. I've only got to prevent it from getting worse.

I think the deafness affects me more than I realise I think it makes me more tired. I loathe parties. I attend, smile and leave.

When 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.