Expert Audiologist in Truro Cornwall | Hearing Aids & Hearing Tests
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Customer Stories

​Sharing their experience of their hearing journey 
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For any further information you may need. 
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Read our Customer Stories

We thought it would be lovely for our customers to share their experiences in order to give an insight of their journey
As such this page will grow over time 

Of those who wish to share their story, we give them the option of sharing their photo and how they would like their name to be displayed

These are real stories, from our customers in their own words

I cannot thank them enough for sharing their experiences of the journey they have been on


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Recent customer stories

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When I retired from work at 60, looking back now I had just accepted that I lived in a world that was a bit different to others due to my hearing loss. 

​Read Hilary's story
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Thinking my right ear was blocked with wax, I booked a removal appointment. Kara at K&M found no wax but diagnosed unexpected hearing loss.

Read Vicky's story 
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Years ago, I noticed my hearing worsening. My wife complained about my constant "pardon?" and the loud TV. A test confirmed I need hearing aids.
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​Read Bob's story
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A misunderstood conversation led to an NHS hearing test and basic aids. Later, Specsavers provided Signia aids, but struggles continued. 

​Read Linda's story
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I convinced my husband for a hearing test at K&M Hearing Solutions. Impressed by Kara’s expertise, I tested too, needing help in noisy places. Great care!

Read the Woan's story
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Before Christmas, I needed ear cleaning. Having had many treatments, I wasn’t worried. K&M, conveniently located, had an appointment a week after I used olive oil.

Read Howard's story

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Sadie, 23, from Cornwall, lost hearing in her left ear at 20 due to a virus. Over time, her right ear worsened, followed by vertigo and unbearable tinnitus.

​Read Sadie's story
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It soon became obvious that in choosing K&M I had made an excellent decision.
The difference my new hearing aids have made is considerable

Read Kim's story 
 

Hilary Eccles 

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Hilary's story:

I’m now in my 70’s but have been a hearing aid user since I was in my 40’s, when I noticed that the hearing in my left ear was very poor compared with my right.

In those days I was working as a nurse in an intensive care unit unit, where there was a lot of machinery and alarms, and I had noticed that I was unable to detect where the alarm was coming from exactly but was still quick to find the right one. Like many people with hearing loss, I’d got used to using other methods of coping, and I was often able to lip read what patients with no voice were trying to say. I knew what to avoid too, and I hated having to answer the phone where I wasn’t able to see as well as hear the person talking to me. 

After a while I admitted to myself that I was struggling and had an ENT appointment, followed by an audiology visit where I was fitted with bilateral hearing aids to “balance things up” as it appeared that my right ear had less than perfect hearing too. I managed reasonably well for a number of years, having the odd upgrades and repairs done, and had accepted that hearing aids are just that- an aid, but not a replacement for normal hearing.
I had to take the right one out to speak on the phone, as it would just whistle if the earpiece was close to it, and I could just about have a conversation that way.

When I retired from work at 60, looking back now I had just accepted that I lived in a world that was a bit different to others due to my hearing loss. I loved doing Zumba, but could never hear the words of any songs, and at home I’d often drift into my own little world when others were watching tv. There are only so many times you can ask for a volume increase before you realise it is sensory overload  for everyone else in the room, and even if you do, louder does not equal clarity as anyone with hearing loss will know.

Covid came, and my hearing aids needed repair, but I was certainly not going to go near the hospital. By the time it was safe to do so, I was told I’d need a new referral, and at this time I discovered that the service had been outsourced to Scrivens. 
I attended and was given a hearing check and then supplied with some “one size fits all” hearing aids. I also discovered that my hearing had deteriorated although everyone in my family had voiced their concerns already.
The new aids were much louder, but fitted badly, and had a lot of unwanted issues, such as giving feedback whenever I was close to a wall, a person (very embarrassing at times) and I could only use my phone if I put it on speaker phone which meant there was never a private conversation. The battery life of the aids was a matter of days, even though I was careful to turn them off at night.
I went back several times to scrivens, and even wrote to their head office, but got no satisfactory response. My hearing loss had once again become something that was seriously impacting on my life. The worst part for me was that I felt I was just being dismissed as a lady with age related hearing loss who wasn’t getting on with my new hearing aids.

Having worked in the NHS all of my working life, it went against the grain somewhat to even consider having private hearing aids, but I’d come to the conclusion that I needed to investigate them at least. I did lots of research into the different companies and types of aids available, and ended up very confused, but what I did decide was that I wanted to find an independent supplier who would listen to my needs. 

Kara had not had her business up and running for very long when I first attended. Id read up on her web page about how she had worked both in the NHS and privately for a number of years, so I was confident that she would understand my problems. 
I was quite nervous before the appointment, but as soon as I went in the door I had a very positive feeling. The reception area is so welcoming and a lot of thought has gone into the décor.
Kara welcomed me into her fitting room and having had lots of audiology visits before this one, I could see how very well set up it was. We spent some time talking over my “history” and she was able to explain why the aids I had were not adequate. I had the most comprehensive assessment I’ve ever had and then tried a few sets of hearing aids before choosing some to buy.

What difference have your hearing aids made in your life?

I can honestly  say that they have changed my life. The advancement in the technology has meant that I can now enjoy lots of sounds so much more clearly than before. I can hear the words in music, listen to the radio or answer phone calls via the Bluetooth features, and the various other settings for individual environments are a real bonus.
The best part of all, though, is that Kara offers excellent follow up and support, and I have been able to benefit from minor adjustments and check ups. This makes such a difference to know that you can make a call or an appointment if you have a problem. 

If you have been thinking about having your hearing checked, and you have been unsure as to where to go, I would recommend you make an appointment with Kara. You will not be disappointed. I am so glad I did, and I know you will be too.
 

Bob Buckland 

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Bob's story:

I first realised I had a problem many years ago. Over the years it has gotten worse.  I was sat in front of the TV, cupping my left ear (my good ear!) to hear it better. My wife was always complaining that I was saying pardon, sorry what was that. The TV was on exceptionally loud as well. 
So I went a couple of years ago to have a hearing test. I went for a test in a booth where I heard all the ping pongs. I was told I needed hearing aids, but I decided to wait.

I saw a competition in the Cornwall Living Magazine to win a pair of hearing aids. So I thought why not! I didn't think I was going to win! I had forgotten all about it, until the call came through to tell me I had won! I was totally gobsmacked and surprised.
​There was a nice greeting when I got to K&M Hearing Solutions. I met the GN rep Dave on the day too, who was there to congratulate me. I was surprised over 1000 people entered the competition, and I had won!
I didn't know what to expect when I came to K&M hearing solutions. I had never worn aids before, so I didn't know what they would do for me! I've never even had ipods or things like that. But the hearing aids have been pretty good actually. The grumbles from my wife have reduced! The TV volume has come down and I don't have to ask my wife for repetition. Out and about, I'm hearing things like the birds chirping. I can hear people chatting on the bus now, over the top of the bus noise now - I'm not listening to what they're saying particularly, but I can now hear it.

What advice would you give others on a similar journey to yours?

Go for it! Have the test. Find out what the problems are and let the expert advise and organise improvement
 

The Woan's

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Bren's story:

I went to K&M Hearing because I had persuaded my husband to have his hearing checked/investigated. Not an easy thing to do I must add.

Having worked on an ENT Department myself, I was aware immediately of Kara's professionalism. Her knowledge of the technology involved is outstanding. The fact that everything can be linked to your mobile phone is an advantage.

I decided once I visited with Harry, that at my age it would be stupid not to take the advantage of having a test myself. As I discovered, I did need help.. YES in noisy places.

I feel that is good that we have started this journey together.

K&M Hearing has everything going for it. Kara is professional, kind and interested in the person she is trying to help. You will find excellent care-experience in all hearing problems plus an understanding of adapting to wearing aids for the first time and how your appearance will look wearing aids. Privacy is maintained at all times. 

The reception you receive when you arrive is warm and welcoming. Dave is the greeter, polite and efficient and easy to talk to. It is a lovely comfortable waiting room if waiting for someone else. From a woman' point of view, Kara has provided the most excellent rest room of any I have visited in hotel standard.



Harry's story:

At the outset, let me state that I was convinced I did not have a problem with my hearing. In company and on a personal level, I found that I missed conversations. Nothing to worry about! I was persuaded by my wife to have a check-up at Duchy Hospital to see if there were any medical problems with my ears. After the consultation and examination, I was told there were no problems but was advised to consult an audiology expert.

With some trepidation, I attended K&M Hearing Solutions in Truro where I met Kara. I completed all the tests in a private, comfortable environment and was shown practically and by computer results that I did indeed have problems with my hearing. My wife was correct all the time, but clever me thought I knew better!

It was a comprehensive examination and as a result, after advice, I decided that if my hearing could be improved I would purchase the appropriate hearing aids needed to assist. 

Since having the aids, I am more confident in my approach to situations on a personal or family connection and I have the ability to use the aids to limit intrusive noise on social occasions. 

If you are not sure what to do, seek advice from people who are able to help. Don't be the "I know best" group!
 

Sadie Day, aged 23

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Sadie's Story:

​Hi, I’m Sadie, a 23-year-old from Cornwall. My experience with hearing loss began unexpectedly at 20 when I suddenly lost hearing in my left ear. At the time, I blamed it on a gig I had attended but later learned that I had a virus. Concerned, I went to my GP, only to be dismissed. I was told that nothing could be done and that I was practically wasting their time.
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About a year later, I noticed my hearing in my right ear wasn’t great either. While I could still participate in conversations, I struggled in group settings. I often missed parts of discussions, which left me feeling left out and upset.

A year and a half after my initial hearing loss, I began experiencing vertigo. Suddenly, everyday activities became frightening. Walking near or across roads felt unsafe unless I had someone with me. Six months later, tinnitus set in, making things even worse. The constant ringing was unbearable, robbing me of sleep and leaving me in distress.
​I went back to my GP when these new symptoms started, desperate for answers. Again, I was dismissed and left to fall through the cracks. It wasn’t until I firmly expressed how distressed I was that I finally started seeing a specialist but even then, I felt overlooked.

That’s when I decided to take matters into my own hands. After speaking with someone who had faced similar issues, I was recommended to K&M Hearing. Their outstanding reviews gave me hope, and from the moment I walked through their doors, I knew I had made the right choice.

For the first time in three years of being partially deaf, I felt truly seen. The team at K&M Hearing cared about my experience, my struggles, and my well-being. They helped me regain control of my life, restoring not just my ability to hear, but also my happiness. Kara has been absolutely incredible, she’s professional, compassionate and truly dedicated to helping people like me. 
Thanks to K&M Hearing, my world feels liveable again. I’m beyond grateful for their support and for showing me that I’m not alone in this journey.

​What advice would you give to someone following in your footsteps?

​If you’re considering following in my footsteps, my biggest advice is to put yourself and your health first. Don’t let anyone dismiss your concerns, your health matters. Keep pushing for answers, seek out specialists who truly care. Finding K&M Hearing was life-changing for me, and if you’re struggling, I encourage you to look for professionals who listen and support you. Most importantly, you’re not alone in this there is help, and things can get better.
 

Vicky Kemp, aged 45

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Vicky's Story: 

I realised I had a problem when it felt like my right ear was impacted with wax and blocked, so I booked an wax removal appointment. I chose Kara at K&M after looking at the "BIG Names" on the high street and read the Google reviews for K&M. During my consultation Kara showed me a video of the inside of my ears. I was surprised to find my ears were perfectly clear of wax. Kara recommended a hearing diagnostic to investigate further. I found out I had a hearing loss and needed hearing aids. Queue the massive shock! Kara dealt with me in a professional and friendly manner and we even laughed about it. She put me at ease about everything and told me not to rush into making any decisions. 

The biggest fear I had at the time was the shock and fear of wearing hearing aids at my age and would people at work see them.
Life has changed dramatically since I had my hearing aids. I can watch the TV with little volume. I enjoy listening to the radio now. The simple things like bird noises, leaves on trees rustling, sea crashing against the rocks and sand. Being able to hear people properly.

What advice would you give to someone following in your footsteps?

Don't hesitate however afraid you are. It can transform your life. Kara will guide you through the whole process with a sympathetic and friendly approach. They make a mean coffee as well.
 

Linda Taylor

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Linda's Story:

I realised that I had a slight problem when I was asked if I would like a coffee. There were smiles and giggles when I replied "no thanks, they stick to my teeth".
I had an NHS hearing test and was given hearing aids. They were basic and could be turned up or back down. After a few years of not hearing at all well I requested further testing. My GP surgery arranged for me to attend Specsavers for a hearing test. I was given Sigma hearing aids and the App was installed on my phone. There were several features which seemed to work quite well. I was not able to hear on our landline or my mobile phone so I asked family and friends to contact me via email or Whatsapp. Approximately a year after using the Sigma hearing aids I felt that I was not hearing well and returned to Specsavers to request another hearing test. Hearing tests are performed every three years. I could have a hearing test but would then have to wait another three years for the next test.
I felt like I was living in a lonely world. Conversations were difficult. Fortunately I have a caring and understanding husband. He made all my telephone calls for appointments etc. We visited the Halls for Cornwall to see a performance of " And then there were none." Prior to the visit, we called at Specsavers to ask how to use the neck device at the theatre which is intended to aid hearing. Specsavers had no idea how to use one. I was given the device at the theatre and was told to switch it on and it would work, it didn't work for me. I only heard three words during the play. I know the story because I saw a wonderful production of the play featuring Valentine Dyal about 50 years ago. On returning home after the play I was upset thinking I would never hear again. I said "I'm doomed, hearing aids are rubbish."

The same evening my husband suggested seeking a private audiologist. We looked online at various audiologists in our area. None of the websites appealed to us until we saw K & M hearing. Their website was informative and user friendly. Prices were displayed too. My husband made an appointment and already I felt that my problems may be dealt with.

What difference have your new hearing aids made?

Since that first meeting with Kara so many aspects of my life have improved. Kara explained that there would be several stages to go through for her to provide me with hearing aids which would improve my level of  hearing.

Here are details of some of the things I now enjoy with my new hearing aids:
I am able to hear the television without the sound being too loud for my husband.
I can hear the birds in the garden as well as watching their antics.  
I hear our neighbour's little Westie woofing when he plays out, he is a lovely dog..
It's great to hear our doorbell chiming. 
Now I hear my mobile phone ringing or telling me I have a Whatsapp message or an email.
Kara has made it much easier for me to make and receive phone calls to my mobile phone. I was hesitant at first as using a phone was such a problem. Family and friends are patient. First of all I made calls to family and friends. After gaining confidence I tried our GP surgery and an insurance company. The insurance company was difficult and insulting.
As my hearing was so much improved we decided to visit Halls for Cornwall again. This time we booked for a Paul McCartney tribute band. It was pure Magic. One line in the song Let them in there is a line which says "someone's ringing the bell" there was a gentle 'ting', and I heard it. I told the whole row and the row in front that I heard the bell. I was so excited. The following day I could not contain my glee so I emailed Kara to tell her.

During church services I have missed so much. Frequently I misheard the hymn number. I would confuse 335 with 339. Sometimes I didn't hear the sermon and I once asked the organist if the organ needed servicing as it didn't sound too good. Thank you Kara for patiently adjusting the music settings many times for me.
Previously I never heard the fan in our bathroom. 
My birthday falls on Christmas Eve and we usually go on holiday for Christmas. It was a wonderful holiday and I hadn't realised how much fun it was pulling Christmas crackers and singing along to the Tor bellringers. I even played a bell and joined in singing carols.
There are a couple of sounds I haven't heard yet. Joggers speed lightly by and cyclists sneak up behind.If they do ring a bell I never hear it and I have been asked if I am B****y deaf!

What advice would you give to someone thinking of following in your footsteps?

​If you have a hearing problem, put your faith in K & M. Kara will listen to your problems. She will speak to you very clearly and use her excellent IT skills to give you hearing aids which will turn your hearing from black and white to colour.
Finally, Kara has endless kindness and patience. She won't give up on you or send you away disappointed.
Dave on reception isn't bad either, he excels with refreshments.​
 

Howard

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Howard's story about his wax treatment:

The latest problem started before the Christmas Holiday period, and so I knew cleaning was necessary as soon as possible.
As a result of my lifetime of ear treatments, I had no fears or concerns. For those who have never had any treatments, it is not painful but perhaps a bit of a noisy surprise when a wax 'plug' is removed.
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K and M is conveniently situated within easy walking distance of carparks and in my case had a vacant slot a week after I started using olive oil as a wax softener.

What was your experience at K&M Hearing Solutions?

This was the first time I could see before and after pictures and Kara informed me that the tube leading to the drum was somewhat narrow. ( I knew about the hairs!) My visit for treatment from you was the most informative, most carefully carried out and most successful of all my treatments spanning over 60 years! By the way, your charge was quite acceptable. I recall paying a far greater amount for a session at the Duchy Hospital which included a payment direct to them for using their equipment which was more than your total bill!

What advice would you give others?

'get it done' you'll be surprised at what you have been missing!
 

Kim Aamot 

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Kim's story:

I have known for years - ten, perhaps - that my hearing was deteriorating. My mother had the same problem, so I was well aware that things weren’t optimal. It was only laziness that kept me from doing something about it - I never felt embarrassed by the idea of having hearing aids. But when I started to avoid noisy social gatherings and the lack of clarity listening to media became a problem, it was time to act.
I always perform a thorough check on providers before I deal with them, especially where health matters are concerned. I looked at many companies before deciding to approach K&M Hearing Solutions. The audiologist’s credentials and experience were a major factor. The website information was excellent and the reviews from other clients were also extremely reassuring. My preference was for a small local provider who would offer a personal service. And it soon became obvious that in choosing K&M I had made an excellent decision.

The difference my new hearing aids have made is considerable. A better volume means a lot, but the huge difference lies in the vastly increased speech clarity. And on a psychological level I am aware that these factors enhance my self confidence in social situations.

What advice would you give to others on a similar journey to yours?

My advice to fellow patients with hearing issues would be not to wait - the sooner one gets help, the better. And to see this as a quality of life investment and choose the best hearing aids one is able to afford.
a hearing test being done

Services

Learn about our full range of hearing and audiology services in Truro, Cornwall. Our professional and state of the art facilities allow us to cover; Wax Removal, Tinnitus Consultations, Hearing Protection, and Hearing Tests
Learn More →
view of a discreet hearing aid from behind the ear

Hearing Aids

​We aim to deliver the best listening experience, tailored to your needs. Our packages of care range from a simple digital hearing aid to the most sophisticated, discreet, custom-made hearing aid technology available
Learn More →
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Our Prices

Learn more about our pricing for our hearing services and Hearing Aids. Our services include; ​Wax Removal, Tinnitus Consultations, Hearing Protection, and Hearing Tests. For any services not listed, please contact us and we can advise
Our Service Costs →
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FAQ's

WHERE IS THE HEARING SHOP IN CORNWALL?
​13 Kenwyn Street, Truro TR1 3DJ
WHAT ARE THE OPENING TIMES?
Monday - 9:30 am–5 pm
Tuesday - 9:30 am–5 pm
Wednesday - 9:30 am–5 pm
Thursday - 9:30 am–5 pm
Friday - 9:30 am–5 pm
Saturday - Closed
Sunday - Closed

HOW DO I BOOK AN APPOINTMENT?
Call us: 01872 857512
Email us: [email protected]
Book online here
WHAT HAPPENS AT A HEARING TEST?
A free hearing test includes a 5-point scan with a pass or fail result, we then discuss your options depending on the outcome. A basic hearing test (£35) includes video otoscopy and a pure tone audiogram with a discussion on the test results, find out more about our hearing test services here.
DOES YOUR SHOP HAVE DISABLED ACCESS?
Our shop has disabled-friendly access with no steps and small wheelchair ramps wherever there is a change in floor levels. View a video tour of our shop here.
IS THERE FINANCE OPTIONS FOR HEARING AIDS?
Yes, some of our hearing aid packages offer a finance option of 12 months 0% interest free, view our packages here.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PRIVATE HEARING CARE?
- Less wait time for appointments
​- More appointment flexibility
- Personalised care
- Advanced equipment
- Access to a wider range of hearing aids
​- Pricing to suit any budget
WHERE IS THE NEAREST PARKING?
The closest car parks to us are:

Kenwyn Mews Parking

Moorfield Multi-Storey Carpark 

Click the carpark names above for directions.
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We are proud members of

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bshaa the british society of hearing aid audiologists
British Academy of Audiology logo
Association of Independent Hearing Healthcare Professionals logo
Oto pro CBT for tinnitus
Tinnitus UK
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  • Welcome
    • About Us
    • Meet the Team
  • Services
    • Wax removal
    • Hearing tests
    • Tinnitus consultation >
      • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
    • Home visits
    • Hearing Protection >
      • what is Noise Induced Hearing Loss?
      • Shooting
      • Musician Ear Protection
      • Motorcycle and Motor racing
      • Surf and Swim Moulds
      • Sleep moulds
      • Flying
    • Our Service Costs
  • Hearing Aids
    • About Hearing Aids
    • Complex Hearing Loss
    • Hearing Aid Accessories
    • Hearing Aid Packages
    • Aftercare
    • Performance Review
  • Get in Touch
    • Contact Us
    • Book Online
  • Insights & Inspiration
    • Blog
    • Hearing Loss Support
    • Customer Stories
    • Customer Newsletter
    • GP Newsletter