The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Numerous setbacks failed to deter determined David
David Diamond juggled kidney dialysis and fostering a child while studying for his Higher National Certificate in social care.
The Angus Council social care officer, 48, was diagnosed with a kidney disease which requires regular dialysis treatment when he was a teenager.
Despite the setback, David still managed to gain his SCOTVEC national certificate qualifications and, at just 18, as well as working full-time, was awarded the coveted green beret in the Royal Marines Reserves.
Fast forward almost 30 years and David, along with some council colleagues, enrolled on a distance learning course with Dundee and Angus College. David also decided to undertake an SVQ Level 3 Award for children and young people.
David, who also lives with an eye condition linked to dyslexia and both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, said: “I left school with very few qualifications and started an apprenticeship in painting and decorating. At the same time, I discovered I had kidney disease which required regular dialysis and eventually a transplant.
“I could see the links between the theories I was learning and the children and young people I worked with and fostered.
“Shortly after beginning I had to have a kidney removed and then start dialysis. I was off work for a few months to recover and it was during that time I decided to continue towards the SVQ Award.
“This has been a challenging year for me but I’m relieved and proud of what I have achieved. I hope my story helps anyone else who may be struggling with their studying and learning.”