Hi and thank you for listening to me. This short story is about me, my life, my family and my challenges.

I’m a father in my mid 20’s with two kids and a third one on the way. For years I have suffered from Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). Its affected my ability to learn and what most people see as simple tasks like reading and writing.  

During my school days, I struggled with the curriculum. Concentrating was difficult and my attention span was very short at best. Perhaps looking back some would say I was a disruptive and rude kid! There were a lot of misconceptions about ADD when I was growing up whilst today its more understood and children receive the necessary support to tackle this disorder. 

I left school early, but other things were more important to me like working hard and raising a family. I had great ambitions of being a baker and soon after leaving school found employment with a national baking retail chain. I was employed as an Assistant Baker and then against my employers concerns, they decided to offer me an apprenticeship. I had finally realised my goal!

I enjoyed the early morning starts and long hours because I was doing what I loved. My employer was very understanding of my condition and supported me throughout. Its hard because some days you can’t concentrate and focus while other days you just go right on along.  

Fatherhood soon came upon me and I was ecstatic.  Having a family of my very own was always very important to me. I’m a good dad who’s calm and would do anything for his kids.  

Unfortunately things turned sour at work and I lost my job. They moved me to another store which was again short lived. After much frustration, I lost my apprenticeship and was devastated. This had meant so much to me and being out of work was not something I was comfortable with. 

I’ve done a series of odd jobs over the years including being a labourer and vine pruning.   I was never one to shy away from work, especially hard work. Fortunately, in time I found a new job at Flinders Hospital where I have been employed as a kitchen hand for the last 2 years. They are very supportive of me and the fact that I have ADD.  

I was assisted by many people throughout my working life and that help continues today. Personnel Employment, an employment service which assists people with disabilities, has been there for the last 9 years and they continue to offer guidance, support and advice with regard to my employment and other personal issues I face. 

There’s not much more to add. Life’s great and having a family and a good job mean the world to me. I love playing with my kids and spent much of my time establishing my garden. Having ADD hasn’t stopped me from living life to the fullest, its just made it more interesting. It’s really that simple.