What do you do?
I am an artist, creating works of art using many different types of mediums and combining these digitally on the computer; this make art accessible to me.
I also run groups promoting positive mental wellbeing through art and always emphasise that you don’t necessarily have to be creative to join in. I love encouraging people to have a go at art, as it’s very therapeutic and is a great way of relaxing and having a chance to do something that you may not be able to do at home.
What has been your greatest achievement?
I would say achieving my BA Hons degree in fine art was a major achievement for me. As a child in mainstream primary school I was not allowed to take my year 6 SATs, as they felt it would let down the stats of the school! This had a lasting impact on me but I turned it into a positive by going ahead and achieving straight distinctions in my BTEC National Diploma in Textiles followed by 2:1 degree.
A more recent achievement was getting a piece of my artwork, based on my assistance dog, for the theme of heroes and heroines, on Grayson’s Art Club on Channel 4. I was interviewed by Grayson Perry for the program, and have a piece of artwork in the exhibition at the Midlands Art Centre in Birmingham, following the TV programme. I hope this achievement helps to show people that, even with cerebral palsy, we can achieve, and I also hope that it will raise awareness of the amazing work assistance dogs do and the charities they’re trained by.
What was your biggest challenge and how did you overcome it?
I have had many challenges in my life, a lot in connection with my CP; fighting for what we should be entitled to, operations, discrimination etc. I overcame (and still overcome) these by not giving up and by trying to use my experiences to help others. Also, it has really helped being part of UP the Adult Cerebral Palsy Movement, as I have been able to hear about things that help with these challenges that I had never previously heard of (it is very hard to find out about disability related information.) Also UP has enabled me to make connections with others going through similar situations.
Who was your role-model growing up?
My mum, as she has always been there for me. Among many things, she has taught and continues teach me determination. She has supported me though all my challenges.
What do you think would help more adults with CP achieve their ambitions?
Access to physio and general support, without having to fight all the time and also a more positive portrayal in the media and in society, so that we can be seen by others, not only as ‘normal’ but also as a valuable and positive part of society.