Hi there, my name is Alana Wadkin and I enjoy creating/designing a range of things on the computer. I have severe Athetoid Cerebral Palsy, which means I can't walk, talk or use my hands and I have involuntary movements; but I am fully capable and qualified in this field of work.

I access the computer via a chinswitch through a scanning method, which is time-consuming but I wouldn't have been able to achieve half the things I have without it. I have always been interested in ICT (Information, Communication Technology) since I was very young. I enjoy using my ICT/design knowledge and would like to show other disabled people that they can achieve their goals if they set their minds to it. With having Cerebral Palsy, the computer plays a vital role in my communication, expression and independence. I started using a BBC Master when I was three years old. Now I use an Apple Macintosh computer and 2 PCs, which are ideal for my needs. One is a laptop and it has a built-in communication aid, which I use for talks, speeches and presentations. I also use a Windows tablet which attaches to my wheelchair, this enables me to communicate while I am away from my computers. I am able to hold a conversation with it - but it's still time-consuming because I have to use my chinswitch still to access it.

I went to Hugh Baird College to follow my ICT interest. First, I chose to take GNVQ Intermediate ICT and I achieved a Merit in it. Also, I passed the ECDL (European Computer Driving Licence) Intermediate course within my first year at the college. In 2004, I completed the AVCE ICT Double Award, my grade was AA. I progressed on to a Foundation Degree in Management (Business), which I have passed with distinction. While I was studying for the degree, I passed an additional course in ECDL Advanced Spreadsheets. I enhance my creative skills by taking enrichment classes in Adobe Photoshop, I learnt so much in a few months.

Now I teach myself using interactive tutorials and books on various software programs such as Photoshop, Flash, Dreamweaver and QuarkXpress etc. I like to keep myself occupied and active.

Apart from the computers, music is my life - I have a passion for music, whenever I hear music I feel alive and happy. I listen to a wide range of music from pop to classical; as long as it has a good beat/rhythm or I like the artist's voice (he/she can actually sing and hold the notes). That's why I love concerts, musicals and talent shows so much. People always tell me I have a good sense of rhythm and timing – no matter where I am, I start swaying/dancing when I hear music and sometimes I try to sing along! I think music should be enjoyable and fun; it is a way of expressing ourselves… I would've loved to have been a singer and to perform in musical theatre if I had been able-bodied. That is why I admire Michael Ball and The Overtones so much for actually living that dream. Most of Michael's songs do create a soundtrack of my life, there are so many I can really identify with and can relate to!!!