My Story: Belinda Hollowood

Belinda Hollowood hasn’t let Turner Syndrome – a chromosome condition that affects only women and invariably leads to short stature and infertility – stop her from enjoying life.

I was born on Boxing Day, 1962 in a small nursing home in Bilston, near Wolverhampton. I was diagnosed with Turner Syndrome at birth, but did not find out myself until I was 18. I’ve been lucky in that, other than a loss of hearing, weak bones (I have plates on all four bones in my forearms after four breaks), short stature and being unable to have children, I am fit and healthy. There are many other complications that I have escaped.

There was some bullying at school, as children soon picked up on the fact that I was “different”, but that is true for many children. At work I have been lucky and find ways of getting things done rather than letting it stop me from doing them. In the main, I am reticent to request extra support or privileges, but my employers at Openreach – part of BT – are very understanding when approached. I have a telephone that is compatible with my hearing aid’s loop system, and it’s never a problem when I take time for hospital visits to check up on my ears, the regular blood tests to check my liver & hormone levels or my yearly visit to the consultant who specialises in Turner’s Syndrome. I really appreciate this and try to deal with whatever comes up without ducking out.

Because my parents divorced, I lived with my paternal grandparents from the age of two. I suppose I did realise that was unusual but, as I was happy and had all the support and love I could want, I never saw it as an issue. I don’t now have any real need to see my other relations – my biological mother, her other children – because I have always been happy and content. I am quite introverted and would need to be confident that the approach would be welcomed before I would attempt it.

The death of my grandmother was a very difficult challenge as we had always been so close. I decided that to sit and feel sorry for myself was not the way I had been brought up, but I should find ways of keeping busy. I have three cousins with small children who I see regularly and derive a great deal of pleasure from, seeing them grow up. I also visit my aunt – my Nan’s daughter – and uncle on their farm a lot. We were both with her when Nan died and have a great bond.

I like to feel useful and helpful and don’t give up on things just because they are difficult. For example it took me years and many driving tests in order to pass, but I kept battling on. I see challenges like that as goals and the feeling when you achieve them makes it all worthwhile.

I work full time at Openreach, where I enjoy the camaraderie and making a difference for people. I’m an assistant Beaver Leader, spend time in my garden and greenhouse, and attend aqua-aerobics. I also attend a cookery class and go on organized short local walks. I own a dog named Tess who demands as much attention as I can give her. Plus, I visit family and friends. I recently completed my BA Hons in Business Studies and am working through my scout training at the moment.

I like to think that I will always try new things or develop my skills, such as taking a photography course to make the most of my new digital camera! At work I would like to take on new challenges, particularly in the exciting area of new technology. For the future, I would also like to visit new places, successfully finish my Scout training and take a more active part in the movement.