Case Study: Caroline
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Case Studies
Case Study: Caroline, Director of People & Organisational Development
I joined Certitude in March 2021 and was given a warm welcome from the moment I started my new role.
I am passionate in my belief that it is people that make a difference in organisations. The commitment Certitude shows in supporting people to develop new skills and live the life they want is the reason I wanted to join the team.
In 2023, I was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). When you have MND, messages from the motor neurones gradually stop reaching the muscles. This can affect how you walk, talk, eat, drink and breathe. The disease affects individuals differently. Not all symptoms will affect everyone or affect people in the same way or order. My consultant thinks I have a rare form of the disease which we hope will progress more slowly.
Initially I was devastated. It so impacts on the person I am – independent, full of energy and pace, as well as the things I loved doing – walking, being outdoors, gardening, swimming in the sea and, of course, talking! However, I have since picked myself up and dusted myself down and I am focusing on the things I can do rather than the things I can’t.
I have really appreciated Certitude’s support as my health situation has changed. I have a specialist office chair which can lock and help me move to a standing position. Our IT department has helped me to use tech solutions for my speech. I have also benefitted from flexible working. Home working (enabled by the type of role I have) as well as starting each day early works better for me, and both have supported my health and wellbeing.
I try to be as positive as I can and focus on what I have and what I can do, not on what I can’t. I would also say it is important to recognise when you need help and don’t be afraid to ask for it. Generally, people are more than happy to help.
