It was not easy for me growing up. I had struggles in school with my reading and spelling, but I did make it to the seventh form—year 13, for you young people. It was not until I joined the serology unit at Canterbury Health Labs that a lovely lady, Sheryl Young, suggested that I get tested for learning disabilities, as she noticed I was struggling. At the age of 21, I went to Seabrook McKenzie Centre in Christchurch to be tested, and found that I had a learning disability, a form of dyslexia. They were shocked that I made it to the seventh form. With this knowledge and understanding, I still achieved to become a qualified technical assistant in immunology. Later, I studied part time for three years and worked full time to finish a diploma in marketing at Christchurch Polytechnic, now known as Ara. During my years at Canterbury Health Labs, I was a Public Service Association delegate, team manager, and team member for the Canterbury health dragon boat team.