I was brought up in Harold Wood with one brother and one sister.
I always knew that I was different. When I was seven or eight years old, I was diagnosed with Autism and Dyspraxia. My handwriting was messy and practically unreadable.
I used to like my own company and I disliked being around people. During my school years I was bullied because of my height and because of my birthmark (white bit in my hair). This led to me becoming very unsure of myself and lacking in confidence.
That continued through my secondary school years as well and I was a victim of bullying, but when I got to the age of 18 or 19 years old I decided that l wanted to become an independent individual. At the time, I was sharing a room with my brother and we each wanted to have our own space. Initially, I suffered stress due to not having my own space, but when I was 21, I was referred to Family Mosiac and their supported living scheme.
With their support, I was able to realise the self confidence and strength I had inside of me. I eventually found a place to live and I loved having my own space. I started to overcome important barriers as I became used to paying household bills and keeping a home.
Fast forward to a few years, I now live in my own council home, I am engaged ( to be married in a couple of years) and I sit on several boards, that oversee the care and treatment of those with Learning Disabilities and Autism, including the Sycamore Trust Steering Group. I am also a winner of Dimensions Leaders List Award 2018 in association with the Guardian Newspaper in the Category of Advocacy and Policy and Media.
I do this as I genuinely care and want to make things better for those with Learning disabilities and Autism, This just goes to show that if you have the right support and guidance, That you can achieve anything you want to do despite any disability or diagnosis.
People said I wouldn't amount to anything, Well I am where I am, Where I thought I wouldn't ever be, I appreciate everything that happens in my life!