As far as we can know or understand, we only have one life and I feel we have a duty to make the most of it. I think because I always died at birth and because it could be seen that everything to do is a bonus what how many people expect of me, I have really taken this idea to heart.


I believe as a result I had a ‘bucket list’ in my head, a list of what I wanted to achieved, from a very early age and I have been very good at achieving them. The list includes having a go at all kinds of sports, especially water sports, travelling to a range of countries, meeting Prime Ministers, visiting specific places like Downing Street and doing all those one of experiences like having tea at the Ritz.


I have not yet done the Ritz and I still want to be invited to a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. Another one big to do to go to Australia which would be fantastic. Some things I have done a few times like see the inside of parliament and next week I am attending a House of Lords reception about AAC. 


This list of achievements is not about competing with others but what I want to do for myself. I want to try everything which interests me at least once so that I am able to have an informed opinion.  I also like to say ‘not yet’ rather than ‘never’ if I am asked if I have done something I have not yet tried.


I am proud of what I have achieve and I feel I can achieve more and in fact whatever I put my mind to doing!