Growing up, who remembers when adults asked us ‘What do you want to be when you grow up?’ My answers were a singer, an actress, maths teacher, and a roadie. Quite varied! I did get accepted for a music course (singing) but I turned it down as it quickly dawned on me that I would be singing in front of a lot of people. No, thank you! As for being an actress, I can’t even keep a straight face most of the time, okay… well, all the time.
I think the ‘maths teacher’ choice came from my love of maths at school, again this turned out to be a bad idea because I hated speaking in front of people. Ever since my first concert, I’d always wanted a job of some sort working backstage or setting up for a show. But as my disabilities have surfaced, I’ve realised that I wouldn’t be able to be a roadie. I mean, let’s face it, I’m in bed by 10pm!
I didn’t really have my heart set on one specific career or a goal I wanted to achieve during my life, until I became disabled.
As cliché as it sounds, it does put everything into perspective. I’ve learned a lot about myself during the past few years and I now know what I’m aiming for. I would love to share thdm with you…
To support patients during their time in Critical Care and their time after discharge.
This is due to my time in Critical Care/ICU. During the times I was on my own, all I wanted was someone to talk to (albeit I couldn’t actually talk), or someone just to hold my hand so that I didn’t feel lonely. I was not prepared for the flashbacks and the nightmares after being discharged. I would like to have had more support with this, which is why I want to help other patients who are going through this. For their loved ones too, support is fundamental at times like these. I don’t know how to pursue this but it’s something I would really love to do.
To raise awareness of my disabilities
If you’re a regular follower, then you will know I’m passionate about raising awareness. As my list of chronic companions has almost hit double figures, it’s made me determined to educate others and share my experiences of living with my disabilities. I plan on doing this for as long as I can.
To break down communication barriers
Many people find it difficult to communicate with me, even after explaining how to. It’s very simple to speak slowly and very clearly, if that method doesn’t work then I suggest using my tablet or phone to use the ‘Speech to Text’ function. This is an issue close to my heart and I’m hoping to talk about this more on my blog.
Career – Weddings or Charity
I’m incredibly eager to work within the wedding or charity sector. My passion for volunteering started when I was 15, from my work experience and it really is an awesome experience working for a charity and I hope to keep volunteering for as long as I can.
My love for weddings obviously comes from planning our wedding – yes it was stressful at times but I would definitely do it all again! Amy, from Sassy Cat Lady, and I have a project in the works and we are super excited about it! Gosh, I’m so excited about this, can you tell I’m excited?!
To be a Mum
This one is really personal. During my time in hospital, I convinced myself that I would never be a good mum because I can’t physically look after myself, let alone another human being. But I have a lot of love to give, and the thought of having a little Avenger in our life makes me smile. Ewan has wanted to be a Dad for as long as I’ve known him, and I know he will be an amazing Dad.
I’ve accepted that there may be alternate methods involved, and I’m honestly OK with that. I just really hope there’s a chance for us to become parents one day.
What did you want to be when you grew up? Has it changed since becoming an adult? What are you hoping to achieve in your life?
