Your stories
29th October 2019
'My mam was told I'd never go to a mainstream school nor walk. I have achieved both and now I am in university…'
We now have a 16 month old baby boy who does not have SB, but I have adapted life as a mother so I can achieve all that I can…
What was your main reason for joining Shine?
My main reason for joining Shine was to feel included in a community where people knew how I felt because in one way or another we are all in the same boat. In 2018 I became a mum. Although I have spina bifida, my son doesn't but I also thought that if there was someone out there that was feeling the way I was I could possibly help them out.
What ways has Shine helped you?
Shine has confirmed to me what I already knew. That was that we are only human and we can lead lives to the full no matter our difficulties. Yes we are all different and we adapt to life in ways that suit us but it's nice seeing others getting on and joining in. I only knew two other people with spina bifida and hydrocephalus growing up so I just thought I was me and a little different.
What’s your proudest moment so far?
I have so many proud moments. I am proud of all I have achieved. My mam was told I'd never go to a mainstream school nor walk. I have achieved both and now I am in university. I learnt how to drive and I now live independently with my family. I will say my most proudest moment and will forever be, is having my son. After almost completing IVF, my partner and I found out that we were expecting after conceiving naturally. We now have a 16 month old baby boy who does not have SB, but I have adapted life as a mother so I can achieve all that I can.
Why is Shine important?
Shine is important because it gives people a real insight. It raises awareness that I think is so necessary now as spina bifida is still not well known in my eyes.
What have you learned most about yourself as a person?
I've learned so much about myself, I learn something new every day. I've learnt to be comfortable in my own skin, to be happy that I'm different, I've learned to work hard and I can still achieve what I want but most of all, I've learned that I'm just as valuable and important than anyone else despite what I was born with.
I feel like I am a strong individual who is very determined and having spina bifida and hydrocephalus has helped me so much.
ABILITY NOT DISABILITY!!
If you've been affected or inspired by our member's stories, you can help Shine support more people just like them by making a donation today. Your donation will help Shine support our members live life to the full and provide vital information for new members at a crucial stage in their lives.