August 1st 2002, I get my bleeper and the instruction that I need to go home and pack a small bag so that I'm ready to leave as soon as they call which could be anytime.  I haven't had any false alarms, but I don't think you can ever be ready for the call that is going to change your life forever, hopefully for the better.

I finished my A levels in June and after a month decided that I would go on the list.  I've waved goodbye to friends going off travelling in gap years or going straight to Uni. and hoped that I wouldn't be far behind, but who knows, certainly not me.  I guess the uncertainty of things is the worst to comprehend.  Anyway I'm not in a wheelchair, so I'm making the most of it.  

Currently I'm working voluntarily at the Eating Disorders Association, I've started a business with my dad and I'm a musketeer in 'The Three Musketeers', in the local Panto.  All these things I'm enjoying.  I hate getting involved in things though and then having to disappear into hospital, and then to rebuild relationships and confidence when I get out again.

I cant wait for the day when I get somewhere knowing I'm going to stay, no interruptions!! Unless they're really good ones!!!

Hil Dockerty