Mike Davis

It probably started when I was 11. I had an ear infection whilst on holiday in Jamaica. I thought nothing of it over the years to follow.

My music kicked off at 13 when I started playing the flute. A well as playing in the school band, I also played in church and various gospel groups. I progressed to the saxophone, where the music got progressively louder.

It was whilst I worked in a nursery that tinnitus was diagnosed. It was more evident then, working with babies with high pitched screaming.

I continued work in a secondary school and was heavily involved in the Music Department. At times, the noise levels would get high.

I have had to live with tinnitus ever since with no let up ... 24/7. My only relief is noise itself (within reason). Music at a comfortable level helps me relax before sleeping.

Night time and mornings are the worst. Other times are when I am in a quiet room or area.

I long to hear silence. Will.i.am used similar words about tinnitus. Unless people experience tinnitus, they won't truly understand what we're going through.