It was 80 years ago this month that I was diagnosed with Polio, and at 3½ my parents took me to Dame Hannahs hoping they could save my life, my mobility and their future dreams for their little girl.

While there isn't a cure for Polio, only treatments, with God's Grace, I was able to return home after 6 months, and continue my recovery from Trendwell Farm, growing stronger again over the years.

I came home with a calliper (these aren't exactly like the one I had, but reminded me of it when I saw these)

Here's a picture of me a few years later, growing stronger...

I went on to defy predictions and expectations, with the loving support and encouragement of my dear parents, family and friends.

After training, developing my skills and moving beyond the family home as a cookery demonstrator in Plymouth and burning up the dance floor at Young Farmers at dances across the South West, I got married, had two boys and grew my family.

Later in life, I received a "post-polio-syndrome" diagnosis - with weaknesses particularly in my leg, falls, and reduced co-ordination. I learned the need to conserve and manage energy, and support my mobility when I needed it. The British Polio Fellowship provided invaluable professional support to help me understand and manage my ongoing condition.

I received brilliant medical support to develop an exercise regime that restored so much flexibility, stability and energy - and those practices of exercise and physiotherapy continue to have such a positive impact to this day, helping me recover faster from bumps and strains, and maintain a more active and mobile life than I ever imagined.

I am proud to celebrate the life I've led, and enjoy showing others what is possible with a combination of drive and self-compassion, ambition and acceptance.

Dame Hannahs saved me as a little girl, and the fundraising activity and engagement I've had with the organisation over the last 35 years have brought great meaning and satisfaction to my life. The team of staff are amazing, the young people they work with are extraordinary, and the friends I have in the fundraising team are the best you could hope for!

Please make a donation, come to the celebration event on 20th September or bid on the auction items that have been donated so generously.