As a child in the 1970’s, I always felt like an outsider. From struggling with junk modelling at playgroup, to being told not to return to ballet class, I faced a constant barrage of challenges that left me feeling different and inadequate from a very early age. My socks were always around my ankles, and I couldn’t, however hard I tried, seem to keep food off my clothes.

It was ‘tough’ and ‘disheartening’ being known as the ‘clumsy’ little girl! School was no different—I seemed to know most of the answers, but my untidy writing and lack of concentration hid this and became the focus of the teachers’ attention.

As I grew older, I learned to cope by using humour to mask my insecurities. Despite these never-ending challenges, I managed to scrape through exams and endure the humiliation of a series of disappointing jobs.

However, life threw me an even more devastating curveball when I lost my first baby. The pain of that loss, combined with severe post-natal depression, led me to seek help.

It was then, 30 years ago, that I was finally diagnosed with Dyspraxia (DCD)—a neurodiverse condition that finally explained my lifelong challenges. The diagnosis was a turning point, and I finally at the age of 26 felt validated, understood and had hope.

Living with Dyspraxia is like being lost in your own head—constantly navigating through the backroads of your brain while other people’s ‘better functioning’ brains take the motorway.

It’s been constantly challenging; running a home, having a job, and living life fully. But with the support of an amazing occupational therapist and other kindred spirits I met along the way, I gained a newfound understanding.  I gradually learnt strategies to cope more easily with everyday tasks and eventually, with the assistance of the disabled student allowance (DSA), was able to qualify as a Dyslexia Tutor and obtain a post-graduate certificate in Applied Positive Psychology at the grand old age of 52!

Thirty years after my diagnosis, I have my own business as a Dyslexia Tutor and mentor, helping neurodiverse children and their parents develop and improve their literacy and life skills. This has brought meaning and fulfilment to my life, as I feel I can relate to these children on a level that many others may not easily understand.

Through the ups and downs of my life, I’ve come to realise that my differences don’t define me—they empower me. I have a supportive family and friends and have the most rewarding job in the world, that not only suits me but challenges me in the best possible way.

My challenges have shaped my life and have given me a unique perspective and the ability to connect with others in a profound way. I’ve learned to embrace my differences and turn them into strengths, and I hope to continue inspiring others to do the same for many more years to come.