 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
I have had a wide and varied career. However, I always nursed a secret ambition I wanted to teach. However I lacked confidence. I believed that I wasunworthy of such an illustrious vocation. So I settled for second, third and sometimes even fourth best- that was until my diagnosis with Multiple Sclerosis in 1997.
After an initial 'adjustment period' of 18 months. I gained self confidence. I wasn't content to continue living my life in the past. The 'new me' became firmly based in the present. I realised that if I truly believed in me, I could achieve anything.
As a result I started grabbing life greedily with both hands. I taught myself to walk , to dance, to swim and ride again. I went to college and passed an Access to Higher Education Course . This was followed one year later by a full time University course. In 2007, I achieved my goal. I proudly stood on the podium and graduated with a B.A (Hons) in Mathematics and Teaching.
Upon graduation, I took up a full time teaching post in a large and lively Surrey secondary school. A job that has exceeded my wildest expectations. For two years I was the only full time Maths teacher with M.S in the United Kingdom.
However, please don't think I am invicible, I am just 'me'. I tussle daily with Many Scars like Humpty Dumpty on the wall of life; and I piece myself together safe in the knowledge that I am loved by Michael 'my glue',my wonderful children and fantastic friends. As a result, I know I am worthy and live ‘in’ and not ‘for’ the moment.
I achieved my intellectual goal with both courage and compromise. I hope that my book inspires others to embrace their life and achieve their goals; particularly those who either have, or know family and dear friends with a friend called Many Scars (Multiple Sclerosis).
After all Life is what we choose to make it; and I know from personal experience, that M.S is the beginning and not the end of life. So come on don't sitback and skulk in the back ground, climb aboard; and relish the rollercoaster ride that can be your life!
J.M Taylor 2009