Van's dyslexia was only diagnosed during Medical School; read her inspirational story of success with dyslexia.

Now a qualified GP, Van was not diagnosed until she was at Medical School, always wondering why studying took her so much longer than her peers. Read Van’s inspiring story of how she achieved an academic qualification despite not being academic.

I was diagnosed at medical school in my early 30's. No one realised I had struggles; I was struggling and didn't think of dyslexia as a possible cause. It was taking me so long to read something and still not understanding it so I asked a colleague who said she took a 1/5 of the time I took to get through some reading material!

Dyslexia brings individual positives and negatives

Positives – I am very flexible, I do not miss things as think of everything possible. I am creative, good long term memory.

Negatives – I struggle with new places and set up, I have difficulties knowing IT systems, passwords, studying for self-development, passing exams especially written ones, financial loss for resitting exams.

Make the most of support you are offered

I had a dyslexia coach, but I was not able to utilise optimally as I was working full time and trying to squeeze the sessions in. I did not have the time to practice and evaluate it's worth and the strategies being discussed.

My biggest achievement was getting into medical school, succeeding through medical school and gaining further qualifications despite dyslexia and home commitments. Essentially, getting an academic qualification despite not being academic. Also, finally passing my AKT GP exam on the 5th attempt.

My advice to those recently diagnosed with dyslexia would be to get as much information as you can, speak to others, try different strategies, find what works for you. It is part of you and can be your strength.