As a younger student, I was unable to continue my secondary education at a mainstream school due to health issues that started to become an issue at the age of 10. At that time I was diagnosed with MS (myalgic encephalomyelitis), although I have since been diagnosed with joint hypermobility syndrome and fibromyalgia as well. I had to leave school at the age of 12 and was out of school for two years while they found me another suitable place.

I got involved with a health needs education service based in Kent, UK and found a place in a small unit with flexible hours, supportive staff and a class of about 8 people. This was great and allowed me to complete some high school. but the subjects available for GCSE study were very limited. Despite this, I got some GCSEs, although not in the subjects I particularly wanted. Due to the nature of the educational unit, there was no option to study at any A level. Studying at university was my only option.

I applied for a college course, met the tutors, and spent time looking around campus on a number of occasions. In the meantime, I was dealing with a lot of health issues and a lot of joint pain. Walking around the university itself was exhausting. I had no choice but to forget to take the course due to a lack of understanding and provision for my physical health needs. Being unable to cope with college sends me into a deep spiral of anxiety and depression.

After a long time I realized that there were other things I could do to keep my brain active and engaged. I started doing free online courses as well as some cheaper ones that I paid for. It gives me a sense of pride that I can do the coursework, even though it can still be very isolating.

When my daughter started school in 2016, one group caught my eye. It was a local moms group, and even though I was very anxious, I decided to tag along. I’m glad I did as being part of the group has helped me learn about many different things. I learned about cooking and healthy eating, about stress and I also learned some manual skills. Although it is not a strict teaching environment with grades, the learning process is informative and enjoyable. The friendly, informal environment helps me feel relaxed about learning and takes my mind off my severe anxiety and other physical health issues.

I don’t think there is enough education provision for those with a physical or mental health problem and I think this is still the case. I think a lot more could be done to be more inclusive and give everyone the same opportunities. As a result of the problems that I have had throughout my adolescence and adulthood, until now I feel that I have no job prospects due to the lack of education for those of us with disabilities, despite being extremely eager to learn. I think more could be done to include those of us with disabilities and help them achieve their dreams.