My name is Catherine Marshall and I am 25 years old. I have ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T), a neurological disorder which affects my balance and coordination.

Everyone gets frustrated from time to time, but to learn that you have a disabling condition has a major impact on your life. Before I was diagnosed as having A-T, I was an active, outgoing child doing the normal things children do. During my time at junior school, I began to take a keen interest in gymnastics, where I gained three certificates and won a bronze medal in a school competition. However, my balance began to deteriorate and I started to have problems with my coordination, and eventually I was diagnosed with A-T. I was devastated at this prognosis, as it meant I would have to give up my love of gymnastics. I now belong to a youth dance company called “Cando II” for disabled …