ABOUT ME
Hello
My name is Lauren Perry
I'm known as '@aticcersguidetolife' across social media channels and I refer to my tics as Trish or Patricia to help differentiate what is my Tourettes and what is me!
A Little bit about me
I'm a 23-year-old graduate living in what feels like a 93-year-olds body. I'm originally from Luton but live in Brighton where I studied English Language and Linguistics. I live with what we now to be Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. alongside a big list of co-morbidities. I spent many years being passed from pillar to post much like many other chronically ill people.
Disability and chronic illness
I have PA/ carers and am an ambulatory wheelchair user. But like many chronically ill young people, my journey hasn't been easy- I am isolated from society and have lost a lot of friends through being poorly. It's tough not being able to keep up with my peers whilst others my age are out clubbing till 6 am. I’m sure many of you are used to the ‘oh really you can’t do that’ comments that come along with an invisible disability! Being a disabled young person it can often feel like you are left behind- if it isn't my body letting me down, it is poor accessibility. Creating this blog has helped me to find access in an inaccessible world an a community of people who 'just get it.'
My mental health journey
Throughout my teens I struggled severely with my mental health, which was a bit crappy- I didn’t go out the house for two years unless I absolutely had no choice.
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After a long haul I like to say I’m 97% over that stage of my life. (touch wood) and I'd love to start sharing my story and helping other teenagers going through similar things.
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Want to hear my story or talk all things mental health? Get in touch!
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I'm more than just 'the girl in the wheelchair' or 'the one with Tourettes'
I have a variety of chronic illnesses but when I'm not sleeping or swimming (I’m convinced I was a mermaid in a past life), I love to travel and explore new places - having access needs has made this more difficult but I am determined for it not to stop me! I've recently bought a new wheelchair which has given me back so much independence and really improved my quality of life.I aim to have fun despite being poorly and meet people who are understanding of my illness! Like everyone, I have bad days but I aim to focus on the good days more.
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