The final story in our accessibility campaign. One student shares what university really looks like when you're managing a chronic condition, and the support that made it possible.
Accessibility isn’t just ramps and lifts. Sometimes it’s a tutor who understands why you’re not in the seminar. Sometimes it’s a friend who knows a flare-up isn’t a snub. And sometimes it’s finishing first year with an upper second from your bed.
To close our accessibility campaign, we asked students to tell us what university actually looks like when you’re managing a long-term health condition. This is one student’s story, in their own words: on studying with stage 4 endometriosis, and the people who made it possible.
If you want a better idea of what this is all about, go watch our accessibility video on Instagram, then come back here to read the full story.
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“When I was first diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis I didn’t think I’d be able to come to university, balancing studying and a social life while dealing with the fatigue and pain that comes with endometriosis.
So far I’ve managed really well though, and I can credit that to a strong support network, both within and outside of the university. My personal tutor is aware of my condition, and I have a support plan which ensures I can access learning even when stuck in bed with a flare up. The best thing for me to do is to reach out for help when I’ve been in flares and finding kind and accommodating staff to help me. I’ve now finished first year with an average of an upper second, despite (or in spite) of my condition!
Socially I’ve prioritised other disabled people at university, who I’ve found through the disability society, and other disability friendly places like the LGBT society. Having people that understand a flare doesn’t mean you’re avoiding people or you’re a bad friend has helped keep friendships strong throughout the year. I’ve also found the support disabled people can give each other is incredible, and we’ve been able to support each other through ups and downs of our health.
University is a scary time, more so as a disabled person with a difficult to manage condition. But I’d recommend everyone to challenge themselves and pursue higher education. We deserve to access academia as much as an able bodied healthy person would.”
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